Moroccan Athlete Sets New World Record In Women's Marathon

Rose Hollermann of the U.S. in action during the gold medal match of the women's wheelchair basketball between Netherlands and United States, at the 2024 Paralympics, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in Paris,

Morocco's Fatima Ezzahra El Idrissi made history by breaking the world record in the women's marathon for runners with visual impairments on the final day of the Paralympic Games. El Idrissi completed the race in an impressive time of 2 hours, 48 minutes, and 36 seconds, surpassing the previous record set by Japan's Misato Michishita by nearly 6 minutes. The 29-year-old Moroccan expressed her focus on winning a medal rather than aiming for a record, stating that she is thrilled to have achieved both.

El Idrissi's compatriot, Meryem En-Nourhi, finished just over 9 minutes behind her, followed by Michishita who crossed the finish line almost 15 minutes after the winner. Spanish runner Elena Congost initially secured the bronze medal but was later disqualified for releasing the tether to her guide before the race concluded.

In the men's T12 marathon, Tunisia's Wajdi Boukhili claimed victory with a time of 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 5 seconds, setting a new personal best. He was followed by Spain's Alberto Suarez Laso and Paralympic record holder El Amin Chentouf of Morocco, who also ran season-best times.

Swiss wheelchair racers Catherine Debrunner and Marcel Hug emerged victorious in the women's and men's marathons for the T53/54 categories. Debrunner, the world record holder, finished more than four minutes ahead of her competitors, securing the gold medal. Hug dominated the men's race, finishing first ahead of China's Jin Hua and Tomoki Suzuki of Japan.

Meryem En-Nourhi and Misato Michishita follow El Idrissi in women's marathon.

Fatima Ezzahra El Idrissi sets new world record in women's marathon at Paralympics.

Wajdi Boukhili claims victory in men's marathon at Paralympics.

El Amin Chentouf and Alberto Suarez Laso excel in men's marathon.

Catherine Debrunner and Marcel Hug win T53/54 wheelchair marathons.

Netherlands' women's wheelchair basketball team defends gold medal.

USA settles for silver in women's wheelchair basketball at Paralympics.

Canada secures bronze in women's wheelchair basketball at Paralympics.

Exciting events like para powerlifting and para canoe races mark Paralympic Games conclusion.

Closing ceremony at Stade de France features grand celebration with dance party.

The Netherlands' women's wheelchair basketball team successfully defended their gold medal with a 63-49 victory over the United States in the final. The Dutch team showcased their experience and skill, led by standout performances from Bo Kramer and Mariska Beijer. The American team settled for silver, while Canada secured the bronze medal by defeating China 65-43.

The Paralympic Games concluded with more medal ceremonies and exciting events, including para powerlifting and para canoe races. The closing ceremony at Stade de France promised a grand celebration with a dance party to mark the end of the successful games.

For more Paralympic Games coverage, visit AP Paralympics.