Marina Houndalowan: Benin’s Last Hope for a Medal in Paris 2024

Benin’s last representative still competing in Paris 2024, Marina Houndalowan is keeping her country’s hopes alive. This Wednesday, September 4, the para-athlete qualified for the shot put final in the F57 category.

Marina Houndalowan qualified with a throw of 6.11 meters which allowed her to place 4th in her series. A performance that is a personal and national record.

A Journey of Perseverance

At the age of 40, this Beninese teacher strongly believes in her chances of winning a medal for her first Paralympic round, which will take place this Thursday, September 5. “Tokyo 2020 gave nothing. But this time, by the grace of the Holy Spirit, I will make the New Dawn sing in Paris,” she has recently confided.

Preparing for the Paralympic Games

In preparation for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Marina Houndalowan followed an intensive course which took her from Montfort-le-Gesnois to Saint-Ouen-en-Brie and Savigny-le-Temple, thanks to a partnership between the Sports Administration of Benin and these French municipalities. Unprecedented preparation for someone who started her Paralympic career a few years ago, driven by the desire to overcome her disability and excel in sport.

Competing in the F57 Category

Marina competes in the F57 category, dedicated to athletes with limited movement of one leg or a moderate impairment to both feet, or the absence of arms and legs. Her throws are performed sitting on a chair, in accordance with the rules of this category.

Past Achievements

In April 2024, during the 8th edition of the International Para-Athletics Meeting (Grand Prix of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan), Marina had already distinguished herself by winning two medals: silver in the javelin throw and one bronze in the shot.