Cypriot powerlifter Maria Markou secured the 9th place in the women’s -61kg bench press event at the 17th Paralympic Games in Paris 2024. Competing at the packed La Chapelle Arena, Markou successfully lifted 95kg in her first attempt.
This was Markou’s second Paralympic appearance, having finished 7th at the Tokyo 2020 Games. After a strong start lifting 95kg, she attempted 100kg but was disqualified due to a technical issue. In her final attempt, she was unable to lift 102kg.
The Cyprus Sports Organization (KOA) congratulated Markou, her coach Dimitris Ioannidis, and the Cyprus National Paralympic Committee for their ongoing support.
In the -61kg powerlifting category, a world and Paralympic record was set by Nigerian gold medalist Mark Onyinyechi, who lifted 150kg. China’s Cui Jianjin claimed silver with a lift of 140kg, while Amalia Perez Vazquez from Mexico secured bronze with 130kg.
Reflecting on Cyprus’ overall performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Cyprus’ Chief of Mission Andreas Theofylaktou
expressed immense pride. “With one silver and one bronze medal (clinched by swimmer Karolina Pelendritou), a 7th (of Viktoras Pentaras in the Long Jump), and a 9th place finish, Cyprus, though small, has proven to be a nation of great achievements,” he said.
As the Games near their end, the closing ceremony is scheduled for September 8 at the Stade de France, where Maria Markou will carry Cyprus’ flag as the designated flagbearer. Alongside Markou, the Cypriot delegation for the ceremony will include six other members.
Source: Cyprus News Agency