Greg Stewart Triumphs Again: Repeats as Paralympic Shot Put Champion in Paris
In a spectacular display of athletic prowess and determination, Canadian shot putter Greg Stewart has once again claimed the gold medal in the men’s shot put F46 final at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. This victory not only solidifies Stewart's dominance in the sport but also marks a triumphant return from retirement.
Stewart, standing tall at 7 feet 2 inches, hails from Kamloops, British Columbia. He achieved a season-best throw of 16.38 meters on his fifth attempt at the iconic Stade de France in Saint-Denis, just north of Paris. This remarkable performance was enough to secure the top spot on the podium, narrowly beating India's Sachin Sarjerao Khilari, who finished just 0.06 meters behind. Khilari, a two-time reigning world champion, was initially surpassed by Stewart’s third throw of 16.34 meters. Croatia’s Luka Bakovic took the bronze with a throw of 16.27 meters.
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Stewart’s journey back to the top of the podium has been nothing short of inspiring. After retiring in 2022, Stewart made a comeback in May of this year with the clear goal of defending his Paralympic title. His dedication paid off handsomely, as he replicated his success from the Tokyo 2020 Games, where he set a Paralympic record with a throw of 16.75 meters. This victory in Paris is particularly significant as Stewart had to overcome personal and competitive challenges, including a silver medal performance at the World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan earlier this year.
In a candid moment following his victory, Stewart reflected on the significance of his win, stating, “Maybe in a day or two I will be able to tell you how I feel. It was a pretty fun competition. Our sport is growing a lot. We have three guys throwing over 16 meters in this final.” His words highlight not only his personal achievement but also the growth and increasing competitiveness of the sport.
Stewart’s victory was also a deeply emotional experience, shared with his partner Taylor Shantz, whom he will marry in just a few weeks. “I get married in 20 days, so I will probably celebrate by marrying my best friend,” Stewart said with a smile. Balancing the intense preparation for the Paralympics alongside planning a wedding is no small feat, and Stewart’s ability to manage both is a testament to his resilience and focus.
Looking ahead, Stewart has his sights set on the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics, emphasizing that this victory is just a stepping stone in his ongoing journey. “I wanted to come back and continue supporting the Paralympic movement, and support athletes any way we can,” he noted.
Stewart’s story is one of remarkable perseverance and dedication. His continued success serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the incredible heights that can be reached through hard work and determination. As he prepares for the next chapter in his athletic career and personal life, Greg Stewart remains a shining example of excellence in Paralympic sports.
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