Paris 2024 Para Powerlifting: Day 1 Records and French Disappointments

Recap of Day One Highlights

The first day of para powerlifting at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games featured thrilling performances, with one world record and two Paralympic records falling. However, France's medal hopefuls, Axel Bourlon and Alex Adela?de, failed to reach the podium, despite significant efforts.

Axel Bourlon Misses the Mark

High Expectations, Harsh Reality Paralympic silver medalist Axel Bourlon was considered a strong contender for a medal in Paris. Despite the roaring support from French fans, Bourlon’s competition quickly turned disappointing. His first lift of 163 kilograms was disqualified, and despite challenging the decision, it was upheld by video review.

Second and Third Attempts Prove Unsuccessful Opting for a 169-kilogram lift on his second attempt, Bourlon struggled with his form, particularly on his right arm, leading to another invalidation. A third and final attempt at 169 kilograms also failed, leaving him unranked. “I didn’t come here for this result,” he said after the event, reflecting on the missed opportunity.

Medal Winners in Men’s Event David Degtyarev of Kazakhstan took gold with an impressive 188-kilogram lift. Cuba's Pablo Ramirez Barrientos secured silver, and China’s Jinglang Yang claimed bronze.

Alex Adela?de's First Powerlifting Games Ends Without a Medal

Sixth Place Finish for Adela?de In his debut para powerlifting event, Alex Adela?de placed sixth with an initial lift of 160 kilograms. Unfortunately, his second attempt at 165 kilograms and a bold third attempt at 172 kilograms were unsuccessful, dashing hopes for a higher finish.

Final Standings Jordan’s Omar Sami Hamadeh Qarada took home the gold, lifting 181 kilograms, while Turkey’s Abdullah Kayapinar earned silver. Qarada attempted to break the world record but missed his 184-kilogram lift.

Women’s Category Sees New Records

Zhen Cui's Record-Breaking Performance Zhen Cui of China delivered a stellar performance in the women’s under 41-kilogram division. She lifted 119 kilograms, setting a new Paralympic record. Despite coming close, she was unable to surpass the standing world record of 123 kilograms.

Podium Finishers Cui was followed by Nigeria’s Esther Nworgu, who lifted 118 kilograms, and Brazil’s Lara Aparecida de Lima, who lifted 109 kilograms. This victory marked Cui’s first Paralympic gold after years of competing at the highest level.