The Cuban delegation celebrated a triumphant day at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, clinching their first two gold medals thanks to stellar performances by their flag bearers, Robiel Yankiel Sol and Omara Durand.
Historic Wins at Stade de France
At the Stade de France, Robiel Yankiel Sol dominated the long jump event in the T47 category, achieving a remarkable leap of 7.41 meters. This outstanding performance surpassed his competitors: China's Wang Hao (7.32 meters) and Russia's Nikita Kotukov (7.05 meters), who took silver and bronze, respectively.
Sol's victory marks the culmination of a successful competitive cycle, which includes triumphs at the World Championships in Paris 2023 and Kobe 2024, as well as the Parapan American Games in Santiago de Chile last season.
In a stunning display of speed, Omara Durand Elías, along with her guide Yuniol Kindelán Vargas, added her ninth Paralympic gold medal to her collection. This follows her previous achievements in London 2012 (two), Rio de Janeiro 2016 (three), and Tokyo 2021 (three).
Durand Elías, at 32 years old, defended her title in the 400 meters T12 class for visually impaired athletes, a title she has held consecutively since London 2012. She achieved a personal best of 53.59 seconds, outpacing Iran's Hajar Safarzadeh Ghahderijani (55.39 seconds) and Ukraine's Oksana Boturchuk (55.67 seconds), who took silver and bronze, respectively.
"I'm very happy to win this gold. I'm enjoying it a lot. I did my best time of the season, but I came here to win a medal. I wasn't worried about any specific time. I'm a fulfilled athlete and very happy with everything I've achieved in my sports career," Durand said at the end of the race.
"I hang my medals in different places. Some are at my mother's house, some are at mine, and some I keep somewhere safe because there are many. This one will be in my living room," she shared.
Omara Durand aims to achieve a triple gold by competing in the 100 and 200 meters events at these Paralympics, a feat she accomplished in both Rio and Tokyo. As of now, Cuba ranks 28th in the Paralympic medal table following today's gold medals and the silver won by Yamel Luis Vives in the 100 meters T44.
FAQs on Cuba's Success at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding Cuba's recent achievements at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Who are the Cuban athletes that won gold medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics?
Robiel Yankiel Sol won gold in the long jump T47 category, and Omara Durand Elías won gold in the 400 meters T12 class for visually impaired athletes.
How many gold medals has Omara Durand Elías won in her Paralympic career?
Omara Durand Elías has won a total of nine gold medals in her Paralympic career, including her recent win at Paris 2024.
What was Robiel Yankiel Sol's winning jump distance?
Robiel Yankiel Sol's winning jump was 7.41 meters in the T47 category.
In which events is Omara Durand Elías aiming for additional gold medals at Paris 2024?
Omara Durand Elías is aiming for additional gold medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters events at Paris 2024.