Ankur Dhama becomes first Indian to win two gold medals in single edition of Asian Para Games

He won gold medals in men's 5000m T11 and 1500m events.

Ankur Dhama, aged 29, has etched his name in Indian sporting history by becoming the first Indian athlete to secure two gold medals in a single edition of the Asian Para Games. He achieved this remarkable feat by clinching the top spot in both the men's 5000m T11 and 1500m events at the Asian Para Games 2023 held in Hangzhou, China.

This seasoned long-distance runner commenced his campaign by seizing the gold in the grueling 5000m race, and he didn't stop there. He continued his winning streak by securing the gold in the 1500m event, demonstrating both his exceptional skill and endurance.

Ankur's sporting journey is even more inspiring considering his life's challenges. He began losing his eyesight at the tender age of 4 and ultimately lost his vision entirely by the age of 5. However, his passion for sports remained unwavering. Under the guidance of his coach, Satyapal Singh, he dedicated himself to a rigorous training regimen.

Ankur made his debut at the Asian Para Games in 2014, and over the years, he has amassed a total of five medals at this prestigious quadrennial event. The 29-year-old athlete's impressive performance extends beyond the Asian Para Games, as he achieved significant success in both national and international competitions during the previous season.

With the Paris Paralympics scheduled for the next year, Ankur Dhama enters the global stage with a wealth of experience. His remarkable journey and continued dedication to his sport position him as a strong contender for a podium finish at the highest level of Paralympic competition.

Achievements

• Silver -1 and Bronze - 2 at 2014 Para Asian Games
• Represented India at 2016 Rio Paralympics
• Bronze (5000m) in Tunisia Para Athletics Grand Prix 2022
• Gold (1500m and 500m) in National Para Athletics Championship 2022
• He became India's first blind athlete in the last 30 years (before 2016) to participate at Paralympic Games in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.