Who is Sharad Kumar? All you need to know about the Indian high jump para athlete competing at the Paris 2024 Paralympics
Tokyo Paralympics bronze medalist Sharad Kumar is all set to take part in the Paris 2024 Paralympics in the Men’s High Jump T63 category, aiming to add another chapter to his illustrious career. Born on March 1, 1992, in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, Sharad is an inspiration.
Despite being paralyzed in his left leg at the tender age of two due to a mishap during a polio vaccination drive, Sharad's indomitable spirit and unwavering determination saw him rise to the top of his sport.
Sharad's journey into the world of high jump began during his school years in Darjeeling, where he quickly outshone his peers by breaking school and district records, even while competing against able-bodied athletes. His talent was undeniable, and it wasn't long before he made his international debut at the 2010 Asian Para Games in Guangzhou, China.
A detailed look at Sharad Kumar's achievements
Sharad Kumar's career has been marked by a series of significant achievements that have solidified his status as one of India's premier para-athletes. After making a strong start in international competitions, he truly came into his own at the 2014 Asian Para Games. There, he clinched the gold medal in the high jump (T42 category), breaking a 12-year-old Asian Games record and reclaiming the world No. 1 position.
Although Sharad Kumar narrowly missed a podium finish at the Rio 2016 Paralympics, where he finished sixth, his resolve remained unshaken. In 2017, he won a silver medal at the World Para Athletics Championships, clearing a height of 1.84 meters.
The following year, he further established his dominance by winning gold at the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta, setting a new Games Record and Continental Record with a jump of 1.90 meters. Sharad's crowning achievement came at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where he secured a bronze medal in the men's high jump T63 category, clearing a height of 1.83 meters. He was given the Arjuna Award in 2021.