India produced a powerful opening statement at the Dubai Para Athletics Grand Prix, securing multiple medals on Day One and moving to the top of the standings.
The Indian contingent collected six gold, three silver and six bronze medals across track and field events, underlining both depth and dominance in multiple classifications.
The headline performances came from Sumit Antil, Navdeep, Bhagyashri Jadhav, Rinku Hooda, Kaviyarasan Velusamy and Dharambir, each clinching gold in their respective events to give India early momentum in the competition.
Field Events Deliver Gold Rush
In the men’s Long Jump T46/47 category, Kaviyarasan Velusamy produced a composed and technically sharp series to register a best leap of 5.97m, securing gold. His consistency on the runway and clean take-offs ensured he stayed ahead of the field, setting the tone for India’s field campaign.
The throws events proved particularly fruitful.
Rinku Hooda struck gold in the men’s Javelin F42/44/64 category with a best effort of 59.46m a throw that demonstrated both distance and control. His mark comfortably placed him ahead of the competition. Fellow Indian Ranjit Chanda added to the medal tally with bronze in the same event, throwing 52.75m.
Bhagyashri Ma Jadhav delivered another standout performance in the women’s Wheelchair Javelin F33/34 event. Her winning throw of 14.13m secured gold, reflecting technical refinement and competitive composure. In a classification where margins are often tight, Bhagyashri’s consistency proved decisive.
Navdeep added to India’s golden haul in the men’s Javelin F40/41 category. His best throw of 41.64m ensured top position on the podium. Sunil Kumar complemented the effort by claiming silver with a 32.47m attempt, giving India a one-two finish in the event.
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In the club throw F51 category, Dharambir delivered a commanding performance with a winning mark of 29.13m. Pranav Soorma followed closely, claiming silver with a throw of 28.70m. The narrow gap between the two underscored India’s strength in depth within this classification.
Bronze Contributions Add to Tally
Beyond the gold medal performances, several Indian athletes ensured a steady accumulation of podium finishes.
Fatima Khatoon secured bronze in the women’s Javelin F54/55/56 event with a throw of 15.94m. Sharmila added another bronze in the women’s Wheelchair Discus F57 category, recording a best effort of 21.75m.
Dipesh Kumar also made his mark in the men’s Javelin Wheelchair F53-57 event, earning bronze with a throw of 28.53m.
On the track, Preeti Pal delivered India’s only sprint medal of the day, clocking 30.91 seconds to secure bronze in the women’s 200m T35/36/38 category. Her performance highlighted India’s competitive presence beyond field events.
Early Leadership in Standings
At the end of Day One, India sit atop the medal table with six gold, three silver and six bronze medals a strong platform for the remainder of the meet.
The spread of medals across classifications is significant. Rather than relying on isolated performances, India’s medal tally reflects structural depth in para athletics, particularly in throws events. The combination of experienced athletes and emerging talent indicates sustained investment in coaching and competitive exposure.
For many athletes, the Dubai Para Athletics Grand Prix serves as an important benchmarking event ahead of a packed international calendar. Performances here not only provide ranking points but also offer confidence heading into major championships later in the season.
Day One has delivered both podium finishes and performance standards. If the opening session is any indicator, India’s campaign in Dubai could extend beyond medal accumulation it could signal continued consolidation as one of the leading para athletics nations in Asia.
With multiple events still to come, the Indian contingent will look to maintain momentum and convert early dominance into a comprehensive overall showing at the Grand Prix.
