Paralympics Gold Medalist Stuns Sports World as He Sets New World Record in Long Jump

Published 06/27/2023, 6:22 AM EDT

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via Reuters

Paralympic athletes are a testament to human resilience. They transcend limitations and inspire us to dream beyond what seems impossible. Their stories of triumphs are bound to leave us spellbound and wanting more. Along similar lines, just five weeks ago, in Barcelona, a new world record of 8.64 meters was set in the Paralympic long jump category by German Paralympic champion, Markus Rehm.

Interestingly, now a month later in Rhede, Markus Rehm stunned the world once again by surpassing his own record and moving closer to Mike Powell’s golden record.. In a scintillating display of athleticism, the 34-year-old has left the sporting world in awe.

Breaking records and setting records

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The German who is popularly known as the ‘Blade Jumper’ is no stranger to setting and breaking world records. As the 2024 Paris Paralympics approach, spectators in Rhede looked on with anticipation. Markus Rehm sprinted down the track with an unmatched focus and, on reaching the marked jumping line, the world champion flew into the air and propelled himself toward greatness. Markus broke his previous world record of 8.64 meters, by jumping a superb 8.72 meters and set a new Paralympic world record.

By jumping 8 centimeters more than his last personal best, Markus Rehm is getting closer to the great Mike Powell. After his awesome achievement, Markus told reporters, “It’s great. The competition got off to a great start at 8.53 meters. That was the best distance I’ve ever had on my first attempt. It got a bit difficult in between. But I knew that the last one My attempt is. I’ve broken records many times – and it was the same today. I’m really happy.” More so, there are only 8 people without impairment have jumped further than the German.

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In 2005, the 5x Paralympic medalist had to amputate his right leg after a wake boarding accident, at the tender age of 14. The German continues to put in the work as he trains for the upcoming World Championships in Paris, followed by the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

Markus Rehm’s journey towards 2024 Paris Paralympics

With Paris Paralympics 2024 just a year away, the German has been firing on all cylinders. A total of 27 athletes from the German Disabled Sports Association will head to the World Para Athletics Championships 2023, which is a warm-up event before the main competition next year.

WATCH: Gold Medalist Shares Podium With Her Dog in a Heartwarming Moment at Beijing Paralympics 2022

Still going strong at the age of 34, Markus Rehm is an inspiration to us all. His constant setting and breaking of world records lay the foundation for a legacy that will forever be etched in sporting history. With his latest feat, the German also becomes the frontrunner to win gold for next year’s prestigious tournament in Paris.

Watch this story – Top Five Para Athletics Moments

 

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Written by:

Vaibhav Singh Bisht

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Vaibhav Singh Bisht is a sports writer for Essentially Sports. He holds a Masters's degree in Mass Communication with a specialization in Advertising and Corporate Communication. Vaibhav has experience working in the Public Relations industry previously.
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Edited by:

Purva Jain