The explosion plunged Sema into a seemingly hopeless situation, with those around him believing his world had collapsed.
However, for Sema, this marked the start of a remarkable path filled with resilience, bravery and an unwavering resolve to reconstruct his life. He embarked on this transformative journey at the Army Paralympic Node, BEG Centre in Pune, where he found the support and resources to overcome his challenges and forge a new beginning.
Shot-putter Sema achieved a remarkable feat at the age of 40 by securing a bronze medal in the men’s F57 category at the Paralympics in Paris. His career-best throw of 14.65 metres contributed to India’s impressive medal tally, which now stands at 27, including six gold, nine silver, and 12 bronze medals.
Sema’s journey in para-athletics has been truly inspiring. He quickly made a name for himself in the F57 category, which comprises athletes with limb deficiencies and impaired muscle power, through his unwavering determination and strength of character.
It was during his time at the Artificial Limb Centre in Pune that senior army officials recognized Sema’s potential and encouraged him to pursue shot-put. Despite starting relatively late at the age of 32 in 2016, he embraced the sport wholeheartedly and has since made significant strides in his athletic career.
In 2016, Sema travelled to Jaipur to participate in the National Para Athletics Championships. His success continued with a silver medal at the 2022 Morocco Grand Prix and a bronze at the Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou.
Despite a heartbreaking fourth-place finish at the 2024 World Championships, Sema’s resolve remained unshaken.
The pivotal moment arrived during his inaugural Paralympics appearance, where he faced intense competition.
Secured to his throwing chair, each of his six attempts showcased his unwavering determination and physical prowess.
On his second throw, he reached the 14m mark and subsequently improved to 14.40m.
Sema’s crowning achievement came during his fourth attempt, surpassing his personal best with a throw of 14.49m, ultimately securing the bronze medal.
Yasin Khosravi, a 31-year-old Iranian athlete and two-time para world champion, secured the gold medal in the men’s shot-put F57 event with a Paralympic record-breaking throw of 15.96m. Thiago Dos Santos from Brazil claimed the silver medal with a throw of 15.06m.
Sema’s bronze medal win was celebrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised the athlete’s remarkable strength and determination.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “A proud moment for our nation as Hokato Hotozhe Sema brings home the Bronze medal in Men’s Shot Put F57! His incredible strength and determination are exceptional. Congratulations to him. Best wishes for the endeavours ahead.”
Sema, who has been a beneficiary of the Khelo India initiative, received support for his training, boarding, and lodging through the National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) scheme.
(With PTI inputs)