By Adedapo Adesanya
Nigeria’s Onyinyechi Mark has won gold and shattered the world record in the women’s 61kg powerlifting category, lifting an astounding 150kg at the ongoing competition in Paris, France.
The 23-year-old Nigerian broke the record twice on her way to securing a first gold medal for the country on Friday.
This remarkable feat surpasses the previous Paralympics record held by compatriot Lucy Ejike.
She defeated Jianjin Cui of China who claimed silver and Mexico’s Amalia Perez won bronze.
Team Nigeria has a storied history in the Paralympics, consistently excelling in powerlifting and athletics.
At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Nigeria secured ten medals, including four golds.
The team has been a dominant force in powerlifting, with athletes like Lucy Ejike and Bose Omolayo setting world records and winning multiple gold medals.
This means the Paralympics team has surpassed their abled peers who left the Olympics held in August with no single medal.
Now, Nigeria has won gold, silver, and bronze medals.
Powerlifter Esther Nworgu claimed the silver medal at the lifting competition for the 41kg final event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games at La Chapelle Arena in Paris.
China’s Zhe Cui won gold and Brazil’s Lara Aparecida de Lima completed the podium with a bronze medal.
Earlier, 18-year-old Mariam Eniola Bolaji became the first African to win a medal in badminton at the Paralympics – a feat yet to be achieved at the Olympics by an African competitor. The Nigerian won bronze in the women’s SL3 Para-badminton.
Nigeria’s continued success at the Paralympics highlights the nation’s dedication to supporting and developing its para-athletes.
Dipo Olowookere