Devendra Jhajharia clinched a gold medal in Javelin at the Rio Paralympics. Devendra bagged a gold medal at 2004 Athens Games and has become the first Indian to clinch two gold medals at the Paralympics. India now has two gold, one silver and one bronze medals at Rio Paralympics.
Javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia became the first Indian to clinch two gold medals at the Paralympics after he broke his own world record to clinch the top honours at the Rio Games on Tuesday.
The athlete, who won his previous gold in the 2004 Athens Games, bettered his own world record to finish on top in the men's F46 event.
Devendra, whose previous best was 62.15 metres (2004 Games), improved the mark with an attempt of 63.97 metres at the Olympic Stadium (Engenhao).
" I can't express how happy I am that I've won gold for India along with a world record. I am so happy that I can't even sleep. I would like to thank all the people of the nation for their prayers. It was me who set world record 12 years ago & today it was me who broke it, " a delighted Devendra told Times Now.
The Rajasthan born athlete lost his left hand when he was electrocuted while climbing a tree as an eight-year-old.
But he continued to follow his dream and went on to achieve the Arjuna award in 2004 and the Padma Shri in 2012, thereby becoming the first Paralympian to receive the honour.
Devendra, who won the gold at the International Paralympic Committee's (IPC) Athletics World Championships in Lyon in 2013, last participated at the Paralympics 12 years ago as the F46 event did not feature in the 2008 and 2012 editions.
India now has two gold, one silver and one bronze medals in the ongoing edition of the Games.
Thangavelu Mariyappan was the first Indian to make a breakthrough at the Rio Games, who struck gold in the men's high jump, while Varun Bhati had secured bronze in the same event. Later, Deepa Malik won silver in the women's shot put event to add to the tally.
