Sumit Antil: Inspiring Journey of a World Record-Holding Para-Athlete
Sumit Antil was born on June 7, 1998, in Khewra, Sonipat, Haryana, India. His father served in the Indian Air Force, and his mother supported his athletic aspirations after a tragic accident.
Initially aspiring to become a wrestler and join the Indian Army, Sumit's plans changed after losing his left leg in a motorbike accident at the age of 17.
Introduced to para-athletics during his B.Com studies at Ramjas College, Delhi University, Sumit began training under coach Nitin Jaiswal in 2017.
Sumit broke the world record multiple times in the men's javelin throw F64 category, with notable throws including 73.29 meters at the 2022 Asian Para Games and 68.55 meters at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
He won gold at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics and the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships, establishing himself as a dominant force in para-athletics.
Sumit Antil was awarded the prestigious Khel Ratna Award in 2021 and the Padma Shri Award in 2022, among other honors, for his outstanding achievements in sports.
Overcoming adversity, Sumit's journey from tragedy to triumph has inspired countless individuals, both in India and globally.
His success has significantly raised awareness and interest in para-athletics in India, encouraging more participation and support for athletes with disabilities.
Sumit Antil serves as a role model for perseverance and dedication, embodying the spirit of resilience and excellence in sports.
Continuously striving for excellence, Sumit aims to further his achievements in international para-athletics competitions and inspire future generations of athletes.