Paris 2024 Paralympics: Navdeep Singh Claims Gold in Javelin with Record-Breaking Performance

Navdeep Singh Wins Gold in Men’s Javelin F41 Class with Record-Breaking Throw at Paris 2024 Paralympics

Navdeep Singh made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympics by clinching gold in the men’s javelin throw F41 class with a new Paralympic record of 47.32m, marking India’s first-ever medal in this category.

Singh's throw surpassed the previous record of 47.13m, set by China’s Sun Pengxiang at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Although Iran's Sadegh Beit Sayah briefly overtook Singh with a throw of 47.64m in his penultimate attempt, he was later disqualified for unsporting conduct, securing Navdeep’s victory.

"I didn't expect to throw that far," Navdeep admitted. "My target was lower, but I trusted my coach and was hoping to perform well. I’m thrilled with how things turned out."

Despite fouling on his first attempt, Navdeep's coach encouraged him to keep pushing, resulting in two throws over 45m. Although he didn’t reclaim the top spot with his subsequent throws, the Iranian’s disqualification sealed his gold medal win.

Sun Pengxiang, the defending champion, took home silver with a best throw of 44.72m, while Iraq’s Wildan Nukhailawi secured bronze with 40.46m.

Competing in the F41 class, which is designated for athletes with short stature, Navdeep had previously finished fourth at both the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou. This gold medal marked a long-awaited breakthrough in his career.

"This medal holds immense significance for me," Navdeep said. "After years of hard work and missing the podium, I’ve finally achieved my dream."

Navdeep’s victory adds to India’s impressive medal tally at the Paralympics, with this being their 29th overall and 17th in para athletics. In other javelin classifications, Sumit Antil won gold in the F64 class, while Ajeet Singh and Sundar Singh Gurjar claimed silver and bronze, respectively, in the F46 class.