The Paris Paralympics 2024 witnessed a remarkable start for India, with Avani Lekhara and Mona Agarwal making a historic mark in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event. Avani Lekhara, already a renowned name in Indian shooting, clinched the gold medal, while Mona Agarwal secured the bronze, adding another proud moment to India’s growing success at the Paralympics.
Avani Lekhara’s Spectacular Victory
Avani Lekhara, the reigning Paralympic champion, showcased an exceptional performance in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 final, maintaining her dominance in the sport. With a final score of 249.7, Lekhara not only clinched the gold medal but also surpassed her own Paralympic record set in Tokyo, where she finished with a score of 249.6. This achievement marks her as the first Indian woman to win two Paralympic gold medals, cementing her legacy in the sport.
The final round of the event was filled with high drama and tension. Lekhara faced a significant challenge during the shoot-off for the gold. Her penultimate shot, a 9.9, caused a brief dip in her standing, placing her behind Korea’s Yunri Lee, who appeared to be in a strong position to take the top spot. However, in a surprising turn of events, Lekhara’s composure and skill came through in her final shot, a steady 10.5, which left the outcome dependent on Lee’s performance. Under pressure, Lee faltered with a disappointing 6.8, allowing Lekhara to clinch the gold by a significant margin of 1.9 points.
Mona Agarwal’s Remarkable Achievement
Mona Agarwal added to India’s triumph by securing the bronze medal with a final score of 228.7. Throughout the event, Agarwal demonstrated consistency and skill, momentarily leading after 20 shots with a score of 208.1. However, a score of 10.0 on her 22nd shot ended her chances of competing for the gold, but she managed to hold on to secure the bronze. Her performance ensured that India began its medal tally at the Paralympics on a high note.
India’s Growing Legacy in Paralympic Shooting
Avani Lekhara’s gold medal not only marked her second consecutive Paralympic victory but also underscored India’s rising prowess in para shooting on the global stage. At the Tokyo Paralympics, Lekhara became the first woman shooter from India to win a medal in the sport, securing both a gold in the 10m air rifle standing SH1 and a bronze in the 50m rifle 3 positions event. Her latest victory in Paris reaffirms her status as one of India’s finest Paralympians.
The SH1 category in shooting involves athletes with impairments affecting their arms, lower trunk, or legs or those who have no limbs. Despite these challenges, athletes like Lekhara and Agarwal have proven that determination, skill, and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
Prime Minister Modi’s Congratulations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to congratulate Avani Lekhara and Mona Agarwal for their exceptional achievements. He expressed his pride in their performances, noting how their successes have brought immense joy and inspiration to millions of Indians. “Avani’s consistent excellence and Mona’s determination are truly commendable,” he stated. “They have made the nation proud, and their achievements will inspire future generations.”
Looking Ahead
India’s shooting contingent has more events lined up at the Paris Paralympics, with athletes like Manish Narwal already making headlines by qualifying for the P1 Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 final. As the competition progresses, India’s Paralympians continue to showcase their talent and resilience, bringing hope and excitement to the nation’s sporting future.
With this remarkable start at the Paris Paralympics, India looks poised to continue its journey of success and sportsmanship, building on the foundation laid by athletes like Avani Lekhara and Mona Agarwal. Their achievements remind us of the power of perseverance and the spirit of the Paralympics, where every shot counts and every athlete is a champion.
