Sumit Antil's Javelin Throw Gold Victory at Paralympics 2024

Record-Breaking Performance

• Sumit Antil won gold in Javelin Throw F64 final at Paris Paralympics 2024
• Set new Paralympic record with 70.59m throw, surpassing his Tokyo 2020 record (68.55m)
• Consistently improved throughout the competition, breaking the record multiple times
• Aiming for 80m throw in the future, believing he hasn't reached his peak at 26
• Joins Avani Lekhara and Devendra Jhajharia in winning multiple Paralympic golds

Career Achievements

• Successfully defended Paralympic title, joining elite group of Indian double gold medalists
• World record holder with 73.29m throw (outside Paralympics)
• Gold medals at World Para Athletics Championships in 2023 and 2024
• Victory at Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China
• Inspires next generation of Indian para-athletes

The F64 Category and Competition

• F64 category includes athletes with lower limb disabilities using prosthetics
• Antil dominated the event, with all his throws potentially medal-worthy
• Emphasizes respect for competitors while focusing on self-improvement
• Aims to reach 75m throw in the coming year

Personal Challenges and Mindset

• Carrying a back niggle for over 1.5 years
• Felt pressure of expectations in Paris, unlike in Tokyo
• Experienced pre-event insomnia, managed it by watching motivational movies
• Acknowledges the difficulty of maintaining top position in sports
• Views pressure as a sign of taking the sport seriously

Paris Paralympics 2024 Overview

• Games started on August 28, featuring 22 sports, 23 disciplines, and 549 events
• China leading medal table with 87 medals, followed by Great Britain
• India's performance bolstered by athletes like Sumit Antil