Did Gurjar Mahendra Break a World Record as India Shines at WPA GP 2025?

Nottwil (Switzerland), May 27 (NationPress) India’s para-athletes made a powerful impact on the world stage during the World Para Athletics (WPA) Grand Prix 2025, which took place from May 23 to 25 in Nottwil, Switzerland. The standout moment came from Gurjar Mahendra, who shattered the world record in the Javelin F42 category with an extraordinary throw of 61.17 meters, winning gold and securing his place in para-sport history.

Also joining him in the medal achievements was India's renowned icon and Paralympic champion, Sumit Antil, who once again demonstrated his prowess in the Javelin F64 category with an impressive throw of 72.35 meters, solidifying his reputation as a top contender for future international events.

The Indian team's performance in Nottwil was nothing short of phenomenal, with Pingane Mina Vilas accomplishing a treble in the F57 category, earning gold medals in discus (16.13m), shot put (4.29m), and javelin (10.56m)—a remarkable feat across all her events.

Among other remarkable athletes was Bhuvi Agarwal, who secured gold in both the long jump T20 with a jump of 4.15 meters, and the 400 meters T20, finishing with an outstanding time of 1:12.23. Her athletic prowess and poise under pressure continue to elevate her status as a budding star in Indian para-athletics.

Versatile athlete Perumalsamy Santhanakumar contributed to India’s medal haul with gold in the long jump T46 (5.71m) and the 400 meters T46 (57.44 seconds), in addition to a silver in the 100 meters T46, showcasing his adaptability across both track and field events. In the same sprint category, Moorthy Pragadeeshwara Raja claimed a silver in the 400 meters T11 (1:01.59) and a bronze in the 100 meters T11, reflecting his consistency and resolve.

Veteran thrower Ravi Rangoli added to the excitement by securing double gold in the F40 category, excelling in both shot put (9.78m) and javelin (34.58m). His continued excellence was highlighted by Gurjar Mahendra, who further expanded his record-breaking javelin success with another gold in the long jump T42, achieving a distance of 5.59 meters.

Reflecting on this landmark campaign, Devendra Jhajharia, Chairperson of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments:

“Achieving a world record is a monumental accomplishment, and witnessing our athletes excel on the global stage fills us with immense pride. The performance in Nottwil highlights the exceptional depth and potential of Indian para-athletics. These athletes are not just winning medals—they’re inspiring a nation and reshaping the boundaries of what’s possible.”