Para-athlete Sachin Khilari clinched the silver medal in the men’s shot put F46 final at the Paris Paralympics, throwing an impressive 16.32 meters, which also marks an area best (AB). Despite his outstanding performance, Khilari fell just short of the gold, missing it by 0.6 meters. The gold medal was secured by Canada’s Greg Stewart, who achieved a throw of 16.38 meters, a season-best (SB) for him. Croatia’s Luka Bakovic took home the bronze with a throw of 16.27 meters.
Sachin Khilari has a history of success, having won a gold medal at the previous Asian Para Games in Hangzhou and claiming top spots in both the 2023 and 2024 editions of the World Para Athletics Championship.
The Indian para-athlete contingent is making history at the Paris Paralympics, having already surpassed their previous highest medal tally of 19 achieved during the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. As of now, India has amassed a total of 21 medals, including three gold, seven silver, and 10 bronze, with more opportunities to increase this record in the remaining events.
In addition to Khilari’s success, the Indian athletics team has seen multiple podium finishes. Mariyappan won bronze in the men’s high jump T6 final with a leap of 1.85 meters, while his compatriot Sharad Kumar secured silver with a jump of 1.88 meters. Ajeet also made headlines with a personal best throw of 65.62 meters, earning him a silver medal, while Sundar settled for bronze with a season-best throw of 64.96 meters. The gold in that event went to Cuba’s Guillermo with an impressive throw of 66.14 meters.
This year, India has sent its largest-ever Paralympics contingent, comprising 84 athletes across 12 sports, which reflects the country’s expanding commitment to para-sports and its increasing medal aspirations at international competitions.
