The Para Sports Association of Odisha announced today, June 1, 2025, that Suchitra Parida, a standout para athlete from the state, will represent India at the prestigious Paris 2025 World Para Athletics Grand Prix.
Scheduled to take place in Paris, France, from June 2 to June 5, 2025, this international event will see Suchitra compete in the F-55 Women’s Throw Events, specifically Javelin and Shot Put, as part of a 30-member Indian contingent aiming to make the nation proud.
A Year of Triumphs
Suchitra Parida has had a remarkable 2025, solidifying her status as one of India’s top para-athletes. Earlier this year, she claimed a gold medal in the F-55 Women’s Javelin Throw at the New Delhi World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2025, demonstrating her skill and tenacity. She followed this victory with another gold in the same event at the National Para Athletics Championship 2025, held in Chennai. These achievements have earned her the World No. 2 ranking in her category, a reflection of her dedication, rigorous training, and exceptional talent in seated throwing events.
The F-55 classification, designed for athletes with specific mobility impairments competing from a seated position, demands precision, strength, and mental focus. Suchitra’s ability to excel in both javelin and shot put underscores her versatility and commitment to pushing the boundaries of para athletics.
The Paris 2025 Spotlight
The World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Paris is a cornerstone of the global para sports calendar, attracting elite athletes from across the globe. From June 2 to June 5, 2025, the iconic city will host thrilling competitions, with the world’s best vying for top honours. India’s team of 30 para-athletes, including Suchitra, carries high hopes as they prepare to showcase their skills on this grand stage.
Suchitra’s participation in the F-55 Women’s Javelin and Shot Put events positions her as a strong medal contender. Her world ranking and recent successes in 2025 signal her potential to add to India’s medal tally, further elevating the country’s growing reputation in para athletics.
Odisha’s Support and Pride
The Para Sports Association of Odisha has been instrumental in nurturing Suchitra’s journey, providing support and resources to help her thrive. In a statement released today, the association expressed their enthusiasm: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Suchitra Parida as she represents India in Paris. Her journey is a source of immense pride for Odisha and a shining example of the potential within our para sports community.”
Suchitra’s story resonates beyond the field, inspiring young athletes in Odisha and across India. Her success highlights the rising prominence of para sports, fueled by increased support from organisations, coaches, and communities dedicated to empowering athletes with disabilities.
A Shot at History
As the Paris 2025 World Para Athletics Grand Prix kicks off tomorrow, June 2, 2025, anticipation builds for Suchitra Parida’s performance. Can she leverage her World No. 2 ranking and 2025 momentum to secure podium finishes in both javelin and shot put? Her preparation, focus, and passion suggest she’s ready to give her all for India.
The nation stands behind Suchitra and the entire Indian contingent, hoping for a stellar showing over the four-day event. With the world watching, this is an opportunity for Suchitra to cement her legacy as one of India’s para athletics trailblazers.
Join us in wishing Suchitra Parida and Team India strength, success, and glory at the Paris 2025 World Para Athletics Grand Prix!