Tokyo Paralympics: Praveen Kumar bags silver in men’s T64 high jump

New Delhi : Praveen Kumar bagged the silver medal in the men’s high jump T64 event of the Paralympics, taking the country's haul to 11 in the ongoing Games in Tokyo. 

The 18-year-old Kumar, competing in his debut Paralympics, set a new Asian record with a 2.07m jump to finish behind Great Britain’s Jonathan Broom-Edwards, who notched up his season’s best of 2.10m for the gold.

The bronze went to Maciej Lepiato of Poland who produced an effort of 2.04m. T64 classification is for athletes with a leg amputation, who compete with prosthetics in a standing position.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted and praise Praveen Kumar, saying, "Proud of Praveen Kumar for winning the Silver medal at the #Paralympics. This medal is the result of his hard work and unparalleled dedication. Congratulations to him. Best wishes for his future endeavours."

The ongoing Games are turning out to be India’s best-ever and the nation has so far claimed two gold, six silver and three bronze medals.

Kumar is the second teenager in the Indian contingent after shooter Avani Lekhara to win a medal at the Games. Lekhara had won a gold and is 19 years old.

Eight of India’s 11 medals have come from athletics, including one gold in men's javelin throw through Sumit Antil (F64). India have so far won five silver medals in the athletics arena along with a bronze.

(With Agency inputs)