Khelo India Para Games 2023: Odisha’s Gadadhar Sahu bags Gold in Powerlifting

New Delhi: Odisha registered another success at the ongoing inaugural edition of the Khelo India Para Games 2023 in Delhi as Gadadhar Sahu won gold in the Para Lifting category.

Sahu, who lifted 140 kg in 58-kg category, finished ahead of Joby Mathew of Kerala (137 kg) who won silver, and Gulfam Ahmed of Delhi who registered a bronze with a lift of 134kg.

Sahu extended his gratitude to the government of Odisha for supporting and encouraging him while reiterating his pride on winning a gold medal for Odisha. “I am delighted to have won a gold medal for Odisha at the first Khelo India Para Games. It is a proud day for me. I am grateful to our Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and the government of Odisha for supporting para sportspersons in our state. As preparation for the competition, we were invited for a camp at the Kalinga Stadium and this has given us an opportunity to shine,” Sahu said.

Sahu’s victory marks Odisha’s 10th medal in the Khelo India Para Games 2023 including six gold medals, one silver medal and three bronze medals. The Odisha contingent is competing in three disciplines – Para Powerlifting, Para Athletics and Para Badminton.