Onyinyechi Mark, a Nigerian powerlifter, achieved a groundbreaking victory at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where she secured Nigeria’s first gold medal and set a new world record in the women’s 61kg powerlifting category.
The 23-year-old’s remarkable feat included lifting 150kg, surpassing the previous record held by her compatriot Lucy Ejike. Mark initially broke the record with a 145kg lift, but she didn’t stop there—she went on to increase it twice, ultimately setting the new record at 150kg.
Her victory came against strong competition from China’s Cui Jianjin, who lifted 140kg for silver, and Mexico’s Amelia Perez, who earned bronze with a 130kg lift. Mark’s outstanding performance further strengthens Nigeria’s legacy in para-powerlifting, a sport in which the country consistently shines on the global stage.
