Esther Nworgu made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympics by securing Nigeria’s inaugural para powerlifting medal. The talented athlete clinched a silver medal in the women’s up to 41kg event at the La Chapelle Arena on Monday, marking Nigeria’s second overall medal at the Games.
Nworgu’s final lift of 118kg was narrowly edged out by China’s Cui Zhe, who claimed gold with a lift of 119kg. Brazil’s De Lima Lara Aparecida took bronze with a final lift of 109kg.
Also read: Nigerian clubs make N15.4bn from 196 transfers in 2024 summer window
Despite falling short of gold, Nworgu broke two Paralympic records during her attempts. Her impressive performance was only surpassed by Cui Zhe’s winning lift.
Cui Zhe, who had previously missed out on gold at four consecutive Paralympics, expressed her delight at finally securing the top spot. Attributing her victory to consistency, she celebrated a long-awaited triumph.
“I’ve kept going for so many years and it definitely hasn’t been the easiest. I’ve felt that I’ve had a mission that I’ve never completed. To become a Paralympic champion has always been my target and I’ve always had faith in getting it done,” Cui Zhe said.
