Cairo: India’s rising para powerlifting star Vinay won the gold medal in the 72kg junior category at the Para Powerlifting World Championships here Friday.
Vinay recorded an impressive series of 137kg, 142kg and 147kg in his three attempts. His final lift of 147kg was ruled invalid by the referees, but his second successful lift of 142kg was enough to secure the gold medal, narrowly defeating Mikolaj Kociubinski of Poland, who lifted 141kg.
The bronze medal was claimed by Sebastian F. of Ecuador with 137Kg.
This marks Vinay’s second major international triumph. Earlier, he clinched gold at the Para Powerlifting World Cup 2024 in Sharm-El-Sheikh, Egypt, competing in the 59kg junior category with a lift of 120kg.
Hailing from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, Vinay’s journey is one of courage and determination. Born into a poor family, his father works as a daily wager. Vinay’s life changed when J.P. Singh, coach of the Indian para powerlifting team, discovered his talent at a state-level meet.
Under Singh’s mentorship, Vinay transformed his potential into world-class performance.
After winning the gold, elated Vinay said, “This medal is not just mine, it belongs to every person who believed in me when I had nothing. From Gorakhpur’s small streets to the world stage in Cairo, this journey was not easy.
“I thank Indian team coach Jitender Pal Singh, Rajinder Singh Rahelu and Nitn Arya Sir, who saw potential in me when no one else did. I dedicate this gold to my family, my country and every young athlete who dares to dream beyond circumstances.”
India has fielded a strong team of 25 para powerlifters with three Juniors and 22 senior athletes in the World Championships.
PTI
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