Paralympics, javelin throw: Navdeep Singh's silver upgraded to gold
Navdeep Singh, a 23-year-old para-athlete from Haryana, has made history by winning India's first-ever gold medal in the men's javelin F41 category at the Paris Paralympics. In a major development, his initial silver medal has been upgraded to gold following the disqualification of Iran's Sadegh Beit Sayah for displaying an objectionable flag. This victory marks a significant improvement for Singh, who had previously finished fourth at the Tokyo Paralympics.
Personal best performance secures top position
Singh delivered a personal best performance of 47.32m in the men's javelin throw F41 final, securing a second place finish. He competes in a classification designed for athletes of short stature. Singh, who started with a foul, recorded a throw of 46.39m in his second attempt. This drove him to second place behind Sayah, who was later disqualified for unsporting/improper conduct.
India's first-ever Paralympic gold in men's javelin F41 category
It is worth noting that Singh has won India's first-ever Paralympic gold medal in the men's javelin F41 category. Sumit Antil, who became the second man to clinch multiple medals at the Paralympics, secured the gold medal in the F64 category in Paris.
A look at Singh's achievements
Apart from the historic Paralympic gold, Singh has won as many as five national gold medals. He also claimed gold at the 2021 Fazza International Championship in Dubai. Singh clinched the bronze medal at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan, earlier this year. His achievement in Paris marks India's seventh gold medal at the Paralympic Games.
Singh's journey to Paralympic gold
As per an Indian Express report, Navdeep had a preterm birth (seven months) in 2000. His parents later took note of his dwarfism. However, this did not stop Singh, who was inspired by his father, a national-level wrestler. Singh ventured into athletics at his school, having competed in special-ability and able-bodied events. His senior career took a new turn in 2017, and two years later, he clinched the gold medal at the world para junior championship in Switzerland.
