India has concluded its campaign at the Para Powerlifting World Cup in Beijing with a total of five medals, showcasing a strong performance in the international arena. The medal tally includes one gold, one silver, and three bronze medals, marking one of India's most successful outings at the World Cup in recent years.
The final day of the competition saw Jhandu Kumar clinching a bronze medal in the Men's 80kg category. He secured his place on the podium with impressive lifts of 187kg and 192kg in two consecutive attempts. His performance was lauded as a fitting end to India's campaign.
On the opening day, India secured four medals. Gulfam Ahmed won a bronze medal in the Men's Elite 59kg category with a best lift of 151kg. Ramubhai Bambhava added another bronze in the Men's Elite 72kg category with a successful lift of 151kg in his first attempt. Veteran lifter Joby Mathew delivered a standout performance in the Masters category, securing a gold medal in the total lift and a silver medal for the best lift. He lifted 145kg and 150kg after an unsuccessful first attempt of 140kg.
The World Cup featured top para powerlifters from over 40 countries and served as a crucial qualification event for the 2026 World Championships and the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
JP Singh, the Chief Coach of the Indian Para Powerlifting Team, expressed his pride in the team's performance. He highlighted the athletes' dedication and the support team's efforts, stating that the five medals reflect their hard work. He believes that India is on the right track and anticipates even greater results in the lead-up to Los Angeles 2028.
The other bronze medals were secured by Ramubhai B. Bambhava in the Men's up to 72kg category and Gulfam Ahmed in the Men's up to 59kg class.
China dominated the medal standings with 38 medals, including 26 gold, followed by Uzbekistan with 24 medals.
