Dilip Gavit and Mohammed Basil Win Gold and Silver for India

In a historic performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Dilip Mahadu Gavit and Mohammed Basil secured gold and silver for India in the men’s 100m T47 category. Gavit clocked an impressive 10.71 seconds to claim the top spot, while Basil followed closely with a time of 10.83 seconds.

A Historic Podium Double for India

This marks only the second time India has achieved a podium double in Para Athletics at the Commonwealth Games. The first came in the women’s shot put F57 event, where Sharmila Dhanker and Shilpa claimed gold and bronze, respectively.

Gavit’s victory also makes him the first Indian male athlete to win a Commonwealth Games gold in Para Athletics. He joins Sharmila Dhanker as the only other Indian para-athlete to secure a CWG gold medal in the discipline.

Gavit’s Remarkable Journey

Gavit, a 23-year-old from Nashik, Maharashtra, has overcome significant challenges to reach this milestone. After losing his right hand in a childhood accident at the age of five, Gavit began his athletics journey at 17 under the guidance of coach Vajinath Kale. “I just wanted the young child to have a fair chance at the sport, and that could happen only with good formal coaching,” Kale had said in an earlier interview.

Gavit’s rise has been swift. He previously won gold in the men’s 400m T47 event at the 2022 Asian Para Games, showcasing his versatility across distances.

Basil’s Breakthrough Year

Mohammed Basil, hailing from Kerala, was born without his right arm. The 2026 season has been a breakthrough year for the sprinter, who started competing at 16. Notably, Basil had defeated Gavit at the Commonwealth Games trials, clocking 10.64 seconds in the T46-47 final. However, Gavit turned the tables in Glasgow to claim the ultimate prize.

Understanding the T47 Category

The T47 classification includes athletes with unilateral upper limb impairments, such as below-elbow or wrist amputations, while maintaining normal leg function. The category showcases the incredible resilience and athleticism of para-athletes who push boundaries despite physical challenges.

This historic achievement by Gavit and Basil not only underscores India’s growing prowess in Para Athletics but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation.

Source: Indian Express