Sumit Antil on Monday won the second Paralympic Gold medal for India in the men’s javelin F64 at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics with a new World record throw of 68.55m. His medal took India’s overall tally to seven, but the 23-year-old athlete appeared far from satisfied with his performance.
According to news agency PTI, Sumit said after his historic achievement, “This is my first Paralympics and I was a little nervous because the competitors are great. I was hoping for a 70-metre-plus throw, maybe I can do 75m. It was not my best, I am very happy to break the world record.”
Reacting to his Gold medal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Our athletes continue to shine at the #Paralympics! The nation is proud of Sumit Antil’s record-breaking performance in the Paralympics. Congratulations Sumit for winning the prestigious Gold medal. Wishing you all the best for the future.”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tweeted, “Congratulations to Sumit Antil for the #Gold. The nation applauds your record-breaking grit and determination. #TokyoParalympics.”
Another Gold for India, #SumitAntil makes India proud!
He won Gold in Men’s Javelin – F64 event with World record attempt of 68.55 #Praise4Para #Cheer4India @tapasjournalist pic.twitter.com/6yGc4CMCJv— DD News (@DDNewslive) August 30, 2021
Similar reactions followed from others.
Sumit started his career as a wrestler before his life was crushed following a motorcyle accident, leading to his left leg being amputated. But the fighter that he’s ben, he did not give up and changed his career option from wrestling to javelin throw.
He was a wrestler prior to a motorcycle accident that resulted in his left leg being amputated before life smiled on him and a new avenue opened up.
“I met with an accident and had my leg amputated. After that, life changed. I went to the stadium just to meet people in 2015, and I saw para athletes. They said, ”You have good height and posture, maybe you can be in the next Paralympics”. Who knew I would be the next champion?” PTI quoted him as saying.
Interestingly, Sumit has also competed against Neeraj Chopra, who won India’s first Gold medal in athletics in this year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo.