Iranian powerlifter dedicates Paralympic gold medal to quake victims

TEHRAN,Sept.3(MNA)--Iranian powerlifter Nader Moradi dedicated his gold medal at London 2012 Paralympic Games to the victims of the earthquakes that struck north-western Iran last month. Moradi lifted 196kg and won the gold medal of the London 2012 Paralympic Games on Saturday. “I would like to express my deep condolences to the families of the victims. I dedicate my medal to them,” Moradi said. Twin earthquakes leveled villages and damaged homes in northwestern Iran on August 11. At least 300 people were killed, and more than 3000 were injured. The London Paralympics began on August 29 and runs until September 9. The Paralympic Games is the world's second largest major international multi-sport event, involving athletes with a range of physical challenges. Iran has sent 79 athletes, competing in 13 events, to the London Paralympics.