Nigeria’s Onyinyechi Mark has set a new Paralympic record in the women’s 61kg powerlifting category at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, lifting an impressive 145kg.
This extraordinary achievement surpasses the previous record held by her compatriot, Lucy Ejike.
Mark’s remarkable performance has positioned her to secure Nigeria’s first gold medal of the Paris 2024 Games, with one lift still remaining.
Her closest rival is attempting 138kg on her final lift, while Mark plans to push her record even further with a final attempt of 147kg.
Nigeria has a rich history of success at the Paralympic Games, particularly in powerlifting and athletics.
At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Team Nigeria earned ten medals, including four golds.
Nigerian para-athletes have consistently dominated in powerlifting, with figures like Lucy Ejike and Bose Omolayo setting world records and winning multiple gold medals.
Mark’s latest accomplishment underscores Nigeria’s continued commitment to nurturing and supporting its para-athletes, further solidifying the nation’s status as a powerhouse in the Paralympic arena.
