Nigerian powerlifter Onyinyechi Mark delivered a stunning performance at the ongoing 2024 Paralympic Games, winning gold in the women’s 61kg powerlifting category. The 23-year-old set a new Paralympic and world record by lifting an astonishing 150kg, cementing her status as one of the world’s best in the sport.
Mark’s triumph at the La Chapelle Arena saw her defeat China’s Cui Jianjin, who claimed silver with a 140kg lift, and Mexico’s Amelia Perez, who took bronze with a 130kg lift. Her gold medal is Nigeria’s first at the Paris Paralympics and marks the country’s third overall medal at the Games.
A Historic Performance
Onyinyechi Mark’s journey to the top of the podium was nothing short of remarkable. She began by breaking her compatriot Lucy Ejike’s previous world record with a 145kg lift. Moments later, she extended that record to 147kg before ultimately setting the new Paralympic and world record at 150kg. Mark’s extraordinary performance meant she shattered the world record three times in one day, underscoring her dominance in the sport.
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Her victory brings immense pride to Nigeria, especially after a challenging Olympic campaign for the nation. Nigeria’s Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh, hailed Mark’s achievement: “This performance is nothing short of phenomenal. You have brought immense pride and joy to Nigerians, and your record-breaking feat is a testament to the resilient Nigerian spirit.”
Nigeria’s Paralympic Success
Mark’s gold medal adds to Nigeria’s growing list of achievements at the Paris Paralympics. Earlier in the competition, Eniola Bolaji won bronze in para-badminton, and Esther Nworgu secured silver in the women’s up to 41kg powerlifting event. Nworgu’s silver came despite competing with a dislocated shoulder, further highlighting the determination and talent within Nigeria’s Paralympic team.
Mark’s gold is a significant milestone for her personally and Nigerian sports as a whole. Her record-breaking lifts and first-place finish have once again positioned Nigeria as a powerhouse in para-powerlifting on the global stage.
A Journey of Resilience and Triumph
Born in Umuahia, Abia State, Onyinyechi Mark has had an incredible journey leading up to her Paralympic triumph. After a disappointing disqualification at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, she returned stronger and more determined, winning gold at the 2023 World Championships with a 146kg lift. Her success in Paris, where she exceeded her own world record, is a culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and dedication.
Mark’s reaction to her victory was one of pure emotion, lifting her hands to the sky and celebrating a dream fulfilled. Her achievement at the Paralympics not only fulfills her personal ambition but also inspires countless others across Nigeria and beyond.
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Looking Ahead
With her historic performance in Paris, Onyinyechi Mark has set a new benchmark in para-powerlifting. As she continues to break records and achieve greatness, her journey will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of athletes in Nigeria and worldwide. Mark’s gold medal and record-setting lifts are a testament to the power of perseverance, and she remains one of the brightest stars in para-sports.
Mark’s success at the Paris Paralympics is a proud moment for Nigeria, and her name will be remembered as one of the standout athletes of the 2024 Games.