Haryana and Delhi Athletes Shine at Khelo India Para Games Powerlifting Events

Outstanding Performances at Khelo India Para Games

New Delhi, March 26

In a remarkable display of strength, Haryana’s Pardeep Joon and Delhi’s Sahista clinched gold medals in their respective categories during the powerlifting competitions at the Khelo India Para Games held here on Wednesday.

Throughout the three-day event, the powerlifting segment witnessed the establishment of four national records, set by athletes Jaspreet Kaur (45 kg), Manish Kumar (54 kg), Seema Rani (61 kg), and Jhandu Kumar (72 kg).

A total of 170 gold medals have been awarded so far, with Haryana leading the medal tally by securing 31 golds, followed by Tamil Nadu with 26 and Uttar Pradesh with 22.

Pardeep, who previously won gold in the inaugural KIPG in December 2023, lifted an impressive 194 kg in the 107+ kg category, marking his second victory.

Coming from a modest background, Pardeep embarked on his powerlifting journey in 2021, ultimately achieving gold in both the National Games and the Khelo India Para Games 2023.

“I was working on a farm when I suffered an injury that caused nerve damage. Unfortunately, I couldn't receive adequate treatment, leading to the amputation of my leg. I was in a state of depression for six months following my injury,” Pardeep shared.

During this challenging period, his family and friend Jaideep provided unwavering support. Jaideep introduced Pardeep to powerlifting and trained him, helping the 31-year-old overcome his depression and gain recognition in the sport.

In addition to Pardeep’s success, Sahista from Delhi also excelled on the final day of the powerlifting competition, transforming her previous silver medal into gold by lifting 81 kg in the 79 kg category.

As a child, an injection led to an infection that caused permanent damage to her knee.

Reflecting on her journey into sports, the 25-year-old Sahista remarked, “I gradually came to terms with my situation. Initially, I aimed to build biceps, but I discovered para powerlifting, which became my new aspiration.”

Meanwhile, the para table tennis competitions at Indira Gandhi Stadium are reaching their climax, with Haryana’s Ekta Bhyan winning gold in the Class 1 and 2 categories after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Tamil Nadu’s Deepika Ranj Ramanathan on Tuesday night.