Praveen Kumar Shines with Gold in Men’s High Jump at Paralympics

On September 6, 2024, Praveen Kumar won the gold medal in the men’s high jump T64 event at the Paralympics. With an impressive jump of 2.08 meters, the 21-year-old secured the top spot and set a new Asian record. This outstanding performance also marked a new personal best for Praveen.

A Successful Paralympic Journey for Praveen

Praveen’s gold medal adds to India’s total of 26 medals in the Paris Paralympics. This is his second consecutive Paralympic medal, having previously earned a silver in Tokyo. His achievement in Paris is a significant improvement, cementing his status as one of India’s top athletes.

Medal Winners in the Event

In the same event, USA’s Derek Loccident took home the silver medal. The bronze medal was shared between Uzbekistan’s Giyazov Temurbek and Poland’s Maciej Lepiato.

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India’s Medal Count

This gold is India’s sixth in the Paris Paralympics, helping the country stay in the race for a top 10 finish.

Why Praveen Competes in the T64 Category

The T64 category is for athletes with moderate impairments in one lower leg or those with missing limbs below the knee. Praveen typically competes in the T44 category, which is for athletes with mild to moderate impairments.

Praveen’s Journey to Success

Praveen comes from Jewar, a small town in Uttar Pradesh. Born with a congenital condition affecting the bones between his hip and left leg, he faced many challenges. However, his dedication to athletics led him to the World Para Athletics Junior Championship in 2019, where he made a mark despite not winning a medal.

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