Onyinyechi Mark from Nigeria has set a new Paralympic record in the women’s 61kg powerlifting category by lifting an impressive 150kg, surpassing the previous record held by fellow Nigerian athlete Lucy Ejike.
Mark’s exceptional performance earned Nigeria its third medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, as she triumphed over China’s Cui Jianjin, who claimed the silver medal with a lift of 140kg.
Mexico’s Amelia Perez secured the bronze medal, trailing 10kg behind her Chinese competitor after a series of intense lift attempts.
Nigeria boasts a strong legacy in the Paralympics, particularly in powerlifting and athletics.
At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, the nation won a total of 10 medals, including four golds.
With athletes like Lucy Ejike and Bose Omolayo breaking world records and winning numerous gold medals, Nigeria’s consistent success at the Paralympics highlights its dedication to developing and supporting para-athletes.