Indian Paralympic gold medallist Sumit Antil has set his sights on achieving an 80-metre mark in javelin throw within the next few years. This announcement follows his stellar performance at the Paris Paralympics, where he secured his second consecutive gold medal with a record-breaking throw of 70.59 m.
The Tokyo Paralympics gold medallist dominated the F64 javelin throw final in Paris this September, breaking the Paralympic record twice to clinch the top spot on the podium. Speaking at the GoSports Foundation Annual Sports Awards Night 2024 in Mumbai on Monday, Antil shared his journey and aspirations.
“Before the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021, I announced during a press conference my aim to hit the 70-metre mark. Many doubted it, saying it was impossible for a Paralympian. However, within 1.5 years, I achieved that milestone at the World Championships. Now, my dream is to reach 80 metres in the coming years,” he said, as per a press release.
Celebrating Sporting Excellence at the Annual Awards Night
The GoSports Foundation Annual Sports Awards Night 2024 honoured several iconic athletes for their contributions and achievements in sports. Paralympic heroes Dharambir and Rakesh Kumar, table tennis star Sreeja Akula, and badminton duo Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty were named Athletes of the Year.
Additionally, Muhammed Anas and Nikhat Zareen were recognised as the Most Consistent Athletes of the Year, while Sumit Antil was celebrated as the Most Valuable Paralympian for his outstanding performance at the Paris Paralympics.
The event brought together over 100 athletes, mentors, and supporters to celebrate achievements across diverse sporting disciplines. It also provided an opportunity for corporate partners and donors to connect with athletes and support their journeys.
Nikhat Zareen’s Inspirational Journey
Nikhat Zareen shared her inspiring personal story during the event. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “Coming from a conservative Muslim family where girls are often expected to stay home and marry, my father, an athlete himself, thought differently. He supported me from the beginning. My mother, however, was concerned no one would marry my sisters and me. I reassured her that once I succeeded, there would be a queue of suitors at our door!”
Her words highlighted the challenges she overcame and the determination that fuelled her success.
Sreeja Akula’s Perseverance and Triumph
Table tennis star Sreeja Akula also shared her inspiring journey. “From a young age, I dreamt of representing India and winning medals. Achieving this has taken years of dedication, resilience, and support. My inspiration was my sister, who excelled in sports but had to quit due to financial constraints. Her story motivated me to pursue table tennis seriously. Though my parents initially hesitated, as I was excelling academically with 96% in my 12th grade, they eventually supported my passion, along with my coach and organisations like GoSports Foundation.”
Her journey is a testament to the role of perseverance, family support, and financial backing in achieving athletic dreams.
Awards for Exceptional Contributions and Emerging Talents
Suhas Yathiraj, a silver medallist at both the Tokyo and Paris Paralympics, received the Outstanding Contribution to Community & Sport award for his dedication and achievements. Additionally, women’s cricketer Nandini Kashyap was honoured with the Spotlight of the Year award for her exceptional domestic cricket performances.
Young athletes Palak Sharma (diver) and Himanshu Nandal (para-swimmer) were recognised as the Most Promising Athletes of the Year, celebrating the emerging talent and potential of Indian sports.
A Night That Celebrated Legacy and Promise
The awards highlighted the achievements of both emerging stars and seasoned athletes, demonstrating the immense potential and promise of Indian sports. The event also celebrated the collective efforts of organisations, mentors, corporate partners, and donors in fostering a supportive ecosystem for athletes.
Also Read: ISPL Season 2 Auction: 350 Players From 55 Cities Set To Compete In Mumbai
