DePaul grad returns from Paralympic Games with gold medal, new world record

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The Paralympic Games in Paris wrap up Sunday, and a DePaul University graduate is among the U.S. athletes who are coming home with a gold medal.

“To hear my name being called and to receive my gold medal and, especially when the national anthem plays, that's the first time I was able to take a breath and realize what just happened,” Noelle Malkamaki told WBBM.

Malkamaki, whose right hand never developed due to a congenital disorder, was describing the moments after she won a gold medal in shot put — with a world-record throw of 14.06 meters.

The previous world record was 13.6 meters, which was also set by Malkamaki.

She said winning the gold medal was an actual dream come true, and she's deeply grateful for everyone who helped her achieve it.

“Just a huge thank you,” Malkamaki said. “I never expected the support that I got from Chicago, especially from DePaul. They’ve been nothing but supportive and genuinely so excited about this endeavor and that has made all the difference.”

The Decatur native now has her sights set on the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

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