Onyinyechi Mark from Nigeria has set a new Paralympic record in the women’s 61kg powerlifting division.
Mark lifted an impressive 150kg to make this extraordinary achievement, surpassing the former record established by fellow Nigerian athlete, Lucy Ejike.
Mark’s outstanding performance guaranteed Nigeria its third medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
She overcame the challenge from China’s Cui Jianjin, who won silver after lifting 140 kilograms.
Mexico’s Amelia Perez won bronze, falling 10 kilogrammes behind her Chinese rival after pulsating lift attempts.
Onyinyechi-Mark
Nigeria has a rich legacy in the Paralympics, particularly in powerlifting and athletics. During the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, the nation earned a total of ten medals, including four golds.
The Nigerian team has consistently demonstrated its prowess in powerlifting, with athletes such as Lucy Ejike and Bose Omolayo achieving world records and securing numerous gold medals.
The ongoing success of Nigeria at the Paralympics underscores the country’s commitment to nurturing and advancing its para-athletes.