Shailesh Kumar Wins Gold at World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2026 in New Delhi

Indian Para Athlete Shailesh Kumar Clinches High Jump T63 Gold

Reigning world champion Shailesh Kumar started his 2026 athletics season with a gold medal in the men’s high jump T63 event at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix held in New Delhi . The Indian athlete recorded a best jump of 1.84 metres , marking a successful comeback after recovering from a knee injury sustained following the World Para Athletics Championships.

Strong Start to the Season

Shailesh Kumar secured the top position with a clearance of 1.84 metres in the high jump T63 category. Although the mark was slightly below his personal best of 1.91 metres , the athlete considered the performance encouraging as it was his first competition of the season.

He revealed that he had experienced pain in his left knee after the previous international championships, which influenced his training and competition schedule. Participating in the World Para Athletics Grand Prix was part of his gradual return to competitive athletics.

Focus on Technical Improvement

The athlete, who hails from Bihar , has been concentrating on refining his jumping technique , particularly the take-off phase. According to him, improvements in this aspect could help him surpass his personal record in upcoming competitions.

Rather than aiming for immediate record-breaking performances, his current training approach focuses on consistent improvement and technical precision , which he believes will produce better results over time.

Asian Para Games as Primary Goal

The main objective for Shailesh Kumar this season is the Asian Para Games . His training and competition schedule have been planned to peak during this event.

He had hoped to compete alongside Mariyappan Thangavelu , a three-time Paralympic medallist who trains with him in Bengaluru , but Thangavelu withdrew from the event due to fitness concerns.

Participation in the New Delhi Grand Prix

The World Para Athletics Grand Prix in New Delhi featured more than 200 Indian athletes , along with several international participants. The event also served as an important platform for athletes seeking official classification required for global competitions.

Exam-Focused Points

• T63 classification in para athletics is for athletes with lower limb impairments using prosthetic limbs .

• World Para Athletics operates under the International Paralympic Committee .

• The Asian Para Games is a major sporting event for para athletes in Asia.

• India has shown consistent improvement in international para athletics competitions .

• The World Para Athletics Grand Prix provides athletes with international exposure and classification opportunities .