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Maria PomazanUkrainian track and field athlete
Date of Birth: 15.10.1988
Country:  Ukraine |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- International Success at the 2011 World Championships
- Paralympic Games Controversies (2012)
- Return of the Gold Medal (2013)
- Honors and Recognition
Early Life and Career
A Ukrainian track and field athlete, Mariia Pomazan is a Master of Sports of Ukraine of International Class. She began her athletic journey at the age of 19 and made her international debut in 2010.
International Success at the 2011 World Championships
In 2011, Pomazan showcased her dominance in the sport at the World Championships in Christchurch. She emerged victorious in both shotput and discus throw, setting world records among F35 athletes (individuals with cerebral palsy).
Paralympic Games Controversies (2012)
Pomazan's triumph at the 2012 Paralympic Games was marred by controversy. Initially, she secured gold in both shotput and discus throw. However, upon reviewing the scores, organizers awarded the discus throw gold to Chinese athlete Qing Wu, relegating Pomazan to silver.
Despite efforts from the National Paralympic Committee of Ukraine, Pomazan's gold medal was withdrawn. In a chaotic turn of events, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) awarded two gold medals: one to Pomazan and one to Wu. The IPC acknowledged a technical error in the scoring system. However, the official Paralympic Games website continued to show Wu as the gold medalist and Pomazan as the silver medalist.
Return of the Gold Medal (2013)
After a series of revisions and negotiations, the IPC finally declared Pomazan as the winner of the discus throw gold medal in 2013. The National Paralympic Committee President, Valeriy Sushkevych, played a crucial role in securing this victory for Pomazan.
Honors and Recognition
Pomazan's achievements have been recognized with the Order of Merit of the 2nd (2016) and 3rd (2012) degrees. She continues to inspire and represent Ukraine on the international stage.
