The #ParisParalympics2024 are finally here, and as the world turns its eyes to the City of Light, we are set to witness an extraordinary display of athleticism, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. From today, until the closing ceremony on September 8th and later, we will be bringing you daily updates from the event, highlighting the inspiring stories of Indian Para-athletes who have overcome tremendous odds to represent the nation on this prestigious global stage.
Overview of the Event
The Paralympic Games, the pinnacle of sporting achievement for athletes with disabilities, is being held in Paris from August 28th to September 8th, 2024. This edition of the Games promises to be a spectacular celebration of inclusivity and sporting excellence, featuring over 4,400 athletes from around the world competing in 22 sports. #Paris, known for its rich history, culture, and commitment to human rights, serves as the perfect backdrop for an event that champions diversity and resilience.
The Significance of the Paris Paralympics 2024
The Paralympics are more than just a sporting event; they are a powerful platform for promoting awareness and understanding of disability issues and advocating for a more inclusive society. For the athletes, this is the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. The Games provide a unique opportunity for para-athletes to showcase their skills, challenge stereotypes, and inspire millions across the globe.
For India, the Paris Paralympics hold special significance. With each edition of the Games, Indian para-athletes have demonstrated remarkable progress, winning more medals and setting new records. The Paris 2024 Paralympics are expected to be yet another milestone in India’s growing presence in the global para-sports arena.
India's Participation: A Rising Force in Para-Sports
India has sent a strong and determined contingent of 84 athletes who have qualified to represent the nation in 12 different sports at the Paris Paralympics 2024. As the nation’s para-sports infrastructure improves, and with increased support from both the government and private sectors, Indian para-athletes are better prepared than ever to take on the world’s best.
Key Sports and India's Expected Performance
Para Badminton: India has emerged as a powerhouse in para-badminton, with high hopes pinned on Suhas Yathiraj, the IAS officer who made headlines with his silver medal at the #Tokyo2020Paralympics. Suhas, along with other talented shuttlers like Pramod Bhagat, will be eyeing gold in Paris.
Para Athletics: India's track and field athletes have consistently performed well at the Paralympics. The nation is looking forward to strong performances from seasoned athletes like Devendra Jhajharia, who will be aiming for his fourth Paralympic medal in javelin throw.
Para Shooting: Indian shooters have shown tremendous potential on the international stage, and Paris 2024 will be a crucial test. Paralympic veteran Avani Lekhara, who won gold and bronze at Tokyo 2020, is expected to lead the charge in shooting events.
The Paralympic Schedule (August 28th - September 8th)
The Games kick off on August 28th, with the opening ceremony setting the tone for 12 days of intense competition. Here’s a brief look at the main events schedule:
August 28
23:30 - #Paralympics #Opening #Ceremony
August 30
13:30 - Women’s Discus Throw F55 Final - Karam Jyoti, Sakshi Kasana
14:00 - Women’s 100m T35 Round 1 - Preethi Pal
16:39 - Women’s 100m T35 Round 1 Final - Preethi Pal*
00:20 - Men’s Shot Put F37 Final - Manu
August 31
22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F57 Final - Parveen Kumar
September 1
13:40 - Women’s 1500m T11 Round 1 - Rakshitha Raju
15:09 - Men’s Shot Put F40 Final - Ravi Rongali
22:58 - Men’s High Jump T47 Final - Ram Pal, Nishad Kumar
23:08 - Women’s 200m T35 Final - Preethi Pal
September 2
13:35 - Men’s Discus Throw F56 Final - Yogesh Kathuniya
13:40 - Women’s 1500m T11 Final - Rakshitha Raju*
22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F64 Final - Sumit Antil, Sandeep, Sandip Sanjay Sargar
22:34 - Women’s Discus Throw F53 Final - Kanchan Lakhani
23:50 - Women’s 400m T20 Round 1 - Deepthi Jeevanji
00:10 - Men’s Javelin Throw F46 Final - Ajeet Singh, Rinku, Sundar Singh Gurjar
September 3
14:26 - Women’s Shot Put F34 Final - Bhagyashri Madhavrao Jadhav
22:38 - Women’s 400m T20 Final - Deepthi Jeevanji*
23:40 - Men’s High Jump T63 Final - Mariyappan Thangavelu, Shailesh Kumar, Sharad Kumar
September 4
13:35 - Men’s Shot Put F46 Final - Sachin Sarjerao Khilari, Mohd. Yasser, Rohit Kumar
15:16 - Women’s Shot Put F46 Final - Amisha Rawat
22:50 - Men’s Club Throw F51 Final - Dharambir, Amit Kumar, Pranav Soorma
23:00 - Women’s 100m T12 Round 1 - Simran
September 5
15:10 - Women’s 100m T12 Semifinal - Simran*
22:47 - Women’s 100m T12 Final - Simran*
23:49 - Men’s Shot Put F35 - Arvind
September 6
13:39 - Women’s 200m T12 Round 1 - Simran
14:08 - Men’s Javelin Throw F54 - Dipesh Kumar
14:47 - Men’s 400m T47 Round 1 - Dilip Mahadu Gavit
15:18 - Men’s High Jump T64 Final - Praveen Kumar
22:30 - Men’s Shot Put F57 Final - Soman Rana, Hokato Hotozhe Sema
22:48 - Women’s Javelin Throw F46 Final - Bhavanaben Ajabaji Chaudhary
23:10 - Women’s 200m T12 Semifinal - Simran*
September 7
22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F41 Final- Navdeep
23:03 - Women’s 200m T12 Final - Simran*
00:29 - Men’s 400m T47 Final - Dilip Mahadu Gavit*
* - Subject to qualification
September 8 - 9
23:30 - #Paralympic #Closing #Ceremony
All the above information is in Indian Standard Time.
These Indian athletes, among others, embody the spirit of resilience and determination. They are ready to make India proud on the global stage, and we are here to follow their journey every step of the way.
Stay Tuned for Daily Updates and Inspiring Stories
As the Paris Paralympics 2024 unfold, join us each day for updates on the competitions, medal tallies, and, most importantly, the inspiring stories of the athletes who are defying the odds to achieve greatness. We will spotlight their journeys, their challenges, and their triumphs as they strive for glory in Paris.
Let’s come together to support our para-athletes and celebrate the incredible spirit of the Paralympic Games!
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