Data error leads to discus medal confusion at Paralympics

Paralympics organisers yesterday admitted the wrong medals were presented in a women's discus event due to "inaccurate results data".

"In today's [Friday's] women's combined class discus event [F35/36] incorrect medals were awarded following the use of inaccurate results data. We sincerely apologise to the athletes affected," LOCOG said in an e-mailed statement.

Yesterday's final at the Olympic Stadium in East London saw Ukraine's Mariia Pomazan win gold, with two Chinese athletes - Wu Qing and Bao Jiongyu - take silver and bronze.

But LOCOG said an error in the Raza system - a statistical model used in combined class field events to determine final positions on points rather than distance - had given the wrong result.

The amended result means Pomazan and Wu swap places, with Bao relegated to fourth and replaced by Australia's Katherine Proudfoot in the bronze position.

"The inaccurate data also affected the men's shot put F42/44, although the final medal placing was not impacted," the statement added. "Omega is currently uploading the correct data and the final results for the women's discus F35/36 event will be amended and restated."

A new medal ceremony for the discus was held late yesterday.

Pomazan had earlier described the win as "extremely emotional" and "an unforgettable experience".

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