23-year-old Onyinyechi Mark has achieved a historic milestone for Nigeria by securing the nation’s first gold medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
Mark clinched the gold in the women’s up to 61kg powerlifting category on Friday, lifting 150kg and setting a new world record for the event.
The previous world record was held by Nigerian powerlifter Lucy Ejike. Mark’s remarkable performance saw her surpass China’s Cui Jianjin, who won the silver medal with a lift of 140kg. Mexico’s Amelia Perez took the bronze, falling short by 10 kilograms.
Nigeria’s Paralympic team has a distinguished track record, particularly in powerlifting and athletics. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Nigeria earned ten medals, including four golds. Notable athletes such as Lucy Ejike and Bose Omolayo have previously set world records and secured multiple gold medals for the country.
The nation’s ongoing success at the Paralympics underscores its commitment to supporting and nurturing its para-athletes.
Earlier in the week, Esther Nworgu won a silver medal in the women’s up to 41kg para-powerlifting event, and Eniola Bolaji secured a bronze in the women’s singles SL3 badminton event.
Later on Friday, Lucy Ejike is set to compete in the women’s up to 67kg para-powerlifting category. The 46-year-old veteran, who has previously won three Paralympic gold medals, aims to add another to her impressive collection when the competition begins at 4 pm.