Punjab Newsline,Sports:
Record-breaking performances and widespread participation highlight a landmark edition in 24th National Para Athletics Championships 2026 held in Bhubaneswar
Haryana delivered a commanding performance to emerge as the overall champion at the 24th National Para Athletics Championships 2026, held from March 17 to 21 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. With an outstanding haul of 95 medals, including 39 gold, 31 silver, and 25 bronze, the state dominated both track and field events, setting a high benchmark for excellence.
Tamil Nadu secured the second position with a total of 51 medals (14 gold, 20 silver, 17 bronze), while Gujarat finished third with 30 medals, comprising 14 gold, 11 silver, and 5 bronze. Host state Odisha ended its campaign in ninth place with 17 medals, including 5 gold.
The championship witnessed massive participation, with 1,460 para-athletes from 28 states competing across 145 medal events. Teams from the Border Security Force (BSF) and Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) also added to the competitive spirit of the tournament.
In field events, Haryana’s Monu Ghangas clinched gold in the Men’s Discus Throw F11 with a throw of 35.05m. Uttar Pradesh’s Ram Ratan Singh secured gold in the Men’s Discus Throw F51–F53 category, while Gujarat’s Damor Tejalben Amaraji impressed in the Women’s Long Jump T11–T12, winning gold with a jump of 4.95m.
Arunachal Pradesh’s Kipa Mero stood out in the Women’s Javelin Throw F12–F13, while Haryana continued its stronghold in field events with Haney securing gold in the Men’s Discus Throw F37.
Track events also saw thrilling performances, with Gujarat’s Bhatt Rakeshbhai winning the Men’s 200m T37 and Maharashtra’s Abhishek Babasa Jadhav topping the Men’s 200m T35. In long-distance races, Himachal Pradesh’s Saurabh Sharma and Haryana’s Ankur Dhama delivered gold-winning runs in their respective 5000m events.
The championship concluded on a high note, showcasing exceptional talent, resilience, and the growing strength of para-athletics across India.