Onyinyechi Mark has secured Nigeria’s first gold medal at the Paris Paralympics, delivering a record-breaking performance in the powerlifting finals. The 23-year-old triumphed in the women’s up to 61kg category on Friday, lifting an impressive 150kg to set a new world record.
Mark’s victory came after a fierce competition, with China’s Cui Jianjin claiming silver after lifting 140kg. Mexico’s Amelia Perez took bronze, falling 10kg short of her Chinese competitor after several intense lift attempts.
In addition to her gold medal, Mark shattered the Paralympic record with her historic performance at La Chapelle Arena, solidifying her place in the event’s history.
This victory marks Team Nigeria’s third medal at the Paris Paralympics. Earlier in the week, Esther Nworgu claimed a silver medal in the women’s up to 41kg para-powerlifting event, while Eniola Bolaji won a bronze medal in the women’s singles SL3 badminton event.
Later on Friday, all eyes will be on veteran powerlifter Lucy Ejike as she competes in the women’s up to 67kg category. The 46-year-old, who has already won three Paralympic gold medals for Nigeria, hopes to add another to her collection when the competition kicks off at 4 p.m.
