The 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris have witnessed the rise of a new archery duo from India, Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar, who have etched their names in history by securing the country’s first-ever archery medal at the prestigious event. This historic achievement marks the first-ever archery medal for India at the Paralympics. Sheetal Devi, a rising star in the para archery circuit, has been impressing with her consistent performances.
Sheetal Devi’s Remarkable Journey Paralympic archery
Sheetal Devi, a 17-year-old archer from India, has captivated the world with her exceptional skill and determination. Born with phocomelia, a rare congenital disorder that resulted in the underdevelopment of her limbs, Sheetal has defied all odds to become a rising star in the world of para archery.
In the ranking round of the women’s individual compound open event, Sheetal Devi logged an impressive score of 703 out of 720, surpassing the previous world record of 698 set by Great Britain’s Phoebe Pine Paterson. However, she ultimately finished second, falling just one point short of the new world record set by Öznur Cüre of Turkiye, who scored 704.
Despite missing out on the individual world record, Sheetal Devi’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Her unwavering determination and exceptional skills have made her a role model for aspiring athletes around the world.
Rakesh Kumar’s Contribution in Paralympic archery
Accompanying Sheetal Devi on their historic journey is Rakesh Kumar, another talented Indian para archer. Rakesh, who placed fifth in the men’s individual event, played a crucial role in the duo’s success.
Together, Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar set a new world record score of 1399 in the compound mixed team qualification, breaking the previous record set by Rakesh and his partner Sarita by one point.
Rakesh’s impressive score of 696 out of 720 in the individual event further solidified the duo’s position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Paralympic archery .
Paralympic archery a Historic Achievement for India
Indian para archers Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar have made the country proud by clinching the bronze medal in Paralympic archery the mixed team compound open event at the Paris Paralympics 2024. The duo defeated their Italian counterparts Eleonora Sarti and Matteo Bonacina 156-155 in a closely contested match in Paralympic archery.
Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar’s performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics has not only brought glory to India but has also inspired a generation of young athletes to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face.
Their success is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and sheer talent of these remarkable individuals. By setting new records and making their country proud, Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar have paved the way for a brighter future in Indian para sports.
paralympic 2024 medals
Here is a summary of the key points regarding the Paralympic medals at the 2024 Paris Games:
- India has won 14 medals so far at the 2024 Paris Paralympics – 3 gold, 5 silver, and 6 bronze.
- Some of India’s top medal winners include Avani Lekhara (shooting), Sumit Antil (javelin throw), and Mariyappan Thangavelu (high jump).
- India is competing in 12 disciplines at the Paris Paralympics, three more than the Tokyo 2020 Games.
- The United States currently leads the overall medal table, followed by China and Japan. India is ranked 71st with 6 medals so far.
- The Paris 2024 Paralympics have seen some impressive performances, with several world records set by athletes from different countries.
- A total of 84 Indian para-athletes are representing the country at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, a record high.
- India is eyeing as many as 55 medals at these Games, an ambitious target given their previous best of 19 medals at Tokyo 2020.
The medal tally and performances of all participating countries continue to be updated live as the Paralympic Games progress in Paris.
The Road Ahead
As Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar advance to the round of 16 in the Paralympic archery events, all eyes will be on them. The world eagerly awaits to see if they can continue their winning streak and bring home the coveted Paralympic archery medal for India.
Sheetal Devi’s words capture the essence of their journey: “I have started strongly with a good performance. If I’m able to keep this level and keep improving, I have a chance to win a medal for India and make my nation proud.”
With the unwavering support of their country and the inspiration they have provided to countless individuals, Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar are poised to make history once again in Paralympic archery on the Paralympic stage.
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