News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/28th July 2024
Manu Bhaker made history by winning a Bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the Paris Olympics on Sunday, July 28. This victory not only marked a personal triumph for the 22-year-old from Haryana but also established her as the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal. The event took place at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre, where Bhaker’s remarkable performance ended India’s 12-year wait for a shooting medal at the Games.
Three years after enduring disappointments at the Tokyo Olympics, Bhaker finally realized her Olympic dream. In Tokyo, she had failed to qualify for the final in any of the three events she competed in, which was a significant setback for one of India’s most celebrated shooters. Despite contemplating quitting the sport last year, she rediscovered her passion and commitment to shooting, which culminated in her historic achievement in Paris.
Bhaker began the final with notable confidence. As her name was announced at the shooting range, she smiled at the TV cameras, eliciting cheers from the Indian supporters. Her performance was solid from the start, as she shot 50.4 in the first series of five shots, hitting scores above 10 three times. Maintaining her focus, Bhaker scored a total of 100.3 in the second series, consistently staying in the top three throughout the competition.
The road to this victory was paved with significant challenges and emotional hurdles. Bhaker’s experiences in Tokyo, where she faced a malfunction in her pistol during the qualification round of the 10m air pistol event, had left her disheartened. The malfunction cost her six crucial minutes and affected her concentration, leading to a disappointing finish despite being one of India’s top medal contenders.
In Paris, however, Bhaker’s resilience and determination shone through. She finished third in the qualification round, demonstrating her ability to handle pressure and showcasing the experience she had gained over the years. Her coach, Jaspal Rana, expressed confidence in her abilities before the event, and Bhaker did not disappoint.
Her bronze medal not only opened India’s account in the Paris Olympics but also marked a significant milestone for Indian shooting sports. Bhaker’s journey from contemplating quitting to standing on the Olympic podium is a testament to her perseverance and dedication.
Bhaker’s triumph is expected to inspire a new generation of shooters in India. Her journey, marked by highs and lows, serves as a powerful narrative of resilience and determination. By overcoming the challenges she faced in Tokyo and reclaiming her place among the world’s best shooters, Bhaker has set an example for aspiring athletes.
As India celebrates Bhaker’s historic achievement, the focus now shifts to the future. Her success in Paris is a reminder of the potential and talent that exists within Indian sports. With her Olympic medal, Bhaker has not only achieved personal glory but also brought immense pride to her nation. Her story will undoubtedly be remembered as a landmark moment in the history of Indian sports, inspiring countless young athletes to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.
