Simran Wins Gold, Tejalben Bags Para Asiad Bronze

Indian sprinter Simran clinched her maiden Asian Para Games gold medal with a new Games record in the women’s 200m T12 event in Nagoya, Japan, on Tuesday. Compatriot Tejalben Damor added a bronze medal on her debut, securing two podium finishes for India in the competition.

Simran Sets New Games Record in 200m

The 26-year-old Simran clocked 24.80 seconds to claim the top spot, ahead of Iran’s Hajar Safarzadeh, who finished second in 25.02 seconds. Tejalben secured third place with a timing of 25.23 seconds.

The T12 category is designated for athletes with moderate visual impairment.

Simran, a bronze medallist at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, improved on her silver medal performance at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Para Games. She is competing with her new guide, Shivam, following the doping-related suspension of her former guide, Umar Saifi.

Simran Overcomes Fatigue and Dietary Challenges

Despite her record-breaking performance, Simran revealed that she had struggled with fatigue and inadequate recovery after her qualifying heat.

She also highlighted difficulties finding suitable vegetarian meals in Japan, where seafood dominates the available food options.

Simran said she had hoped to match her own Asian record of 24.46 seconds but was unable to achieve that target due to physical discomfort.

She will next compete in the women’s 100m event, where she won silver at the previous Games.

Tejalben Eyes Success in Upcoming 400m Race

For 24-year-old Tejalben, the bronze medal marked an encouraging start to her Asian Para Games campaign.

Speaking about her journey, she recalled her family’s financial struggles and the determination that helped her reach the international stage.

Tejalben said the podium finish had boosted her confidence ahead of the women’s 400m event, which she considers her strongest discipline.