Nishad Kumar clinches silver in men's high jump at Paris Paralympics 2024
Paris Paralympics 2024: India's Nishad Kumar secured a silver medal in the men's high jump T47 event at the Paris Paralympics, adding to his previous silver from the Tokyo Paralympics three years ago. The 24-year-old delivered a season-best jump of 2.04m, placing him behind the USA's Roderick Townsend, who also claimed gold in Tokyo.
In an impressive display, Nishad Kumar dominated the 11-man field in the high jump T47 event. However, Townsend outperformed with a season-best jump of 2.12m, earning him the gold. Nishad, who was visibly disappointed after failing his third attempt at clearing 2.08m, was consoled by Townsend in a heartwarming embrace, bringing smiles to both competitors. The bronze medal went to Georgii Margiev, representing the Neutral Paralympic Athletes, with a best effort of 2m.
Nishad entered the Paris Paralympics determined to surpass his Tokyo achievement, but once again, Townsend proved to be a formidable challenge. Despite this, Nishad remains motivated to push his limits and continue raising the bar in his sport.
Another Indian high jumper, Ram Pal, also competed in the event, finishing seventh with a personal best of 1.95m.
With Nishad's medal, India’s athletics tally at the Paris Paralympics reached three medals, following Preethi Pal's bronze in the women's 200m T35 event. India had previously won eight medals in track and field at the Tokyo Paralympics.
Nishad's journey to Paralympic success is a story of resilience. At the age of six, he lost his right hand in a severe accident on his family farm. Despite this setback, he found strength in sports, inspired by his mother, a state-level volleyball player and discus thrower. He began his para-athletics career in 2009 and has since become a powerhouse in the sport.
Prior to the Paris Paralympics, Nishad won a silver medal at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan, and he lived up to expectations with another stellar performance in Paris.
- With inputs from agencies
