Sep 7, 2024
Harvinder Singh, the gold medallist in archery, and Preeti Pal, the trailblazing sprinter who secured two medals at the Paralympics, have been chosen to carry India's flag during the closing ceremony of the Paris Paralympics on Sunday.
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Harvinder's achievement marks a significant milestone as he became the first Indian archer to win gold at the Paralympics, complementing his bronze medal from the Tokyo Games in 2021.
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At 33 years old, Harvinder expressed his profound gratitude for the opportunity to serve as one of India's flagbearers, stating, "carrying the country's flag during the closing ceremony was the highest honour he could have dreamed of."
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Preeti, a 23-year-old athlete, expressed her excitement upon receiving the news of her achievements. She secured bronze medals in the women's T35 100m and 200m events, setting personal records with timings of 14.21 and 30.01 seconds respectively.
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Preeti Pal's accomplishment is equally remarkable, as she made history by becoming the first Indian woman to earn two medals at the Paralympic Games.
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"It is a great honour to represent India as a flag bearer. This moment is not just about me; it's about every para-athlete who has pushed their limits to make our nation proud. I am thrilled to be leading our incredible team at the closing ceremony."
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"Harvinder Singh's historic gold in archery and Preeti Pal's stellar performance in athletics have made them true ambassadors of our nation's grit and determination" said Satya Prakash Sangwan, the Indian contingent's chef de mission
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