The Paris Olympics 2024
The Paris Olympics 2024 has kicked off with a bang, and India has already made its mark on the global stage. The excitement is palpable as athletes from around the world gather in the City of Light to showcase their talents and compete for Olympic glory. For India, the Games have begun on a high note, thanks to the remarkable achievement of shooter Manu Bhaker.
Manu Bhaker’s Bronze: A Trailblazing Moment
On Sunday, July 28, 2024, Manu Bhaker made history by winning a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event. This victory is not just a personal triumph for Bhaker, but a significant milestone for Indian shooting and women’s sports in the country.
At just 22 years old, Bhaker has become the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting. Her achievement ends a 12-year medal drought for India in Olympic shooting events, with the last medals coming from Vijay Kumar (silver) and Gagan Narang (bronze) at the 2012 London Olympics.
The Road to Redemption
Bhaker’s journey to this Olympic podium is a tale of resilience and determination. Three years ago, at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, she faced heartbreak when a pistol malfunction during qualifications dashed her medal hopes. The disappointment was so profound that she even contemplated retirement.
However, Bhaker’s indomitable spirit prevailed. She returned to training with renewed focus and determination. Her hard work paid off in Paris, where she displayed nerves of steel to secure the bronze medal. In the final, Bhaker shot an impressive 221.7 to claim third place, narrowly missing out on silver in the last shot.
The story of Manu Bhaker
Bhaker’s journey to Olympic success began in Jhajjar, Haryana. From a young age, she showed promise in various sports, including tennis, skating, and boxing. However, it was the 2016 Rio Olympics that ignited her passion for shooting. At just 14, she convinced her father to buy her a sports pistol, marking the beginning of her shooting career.
Her rise in the sport was meteoric. In 2017, she stunned the nation by defeating Olympian Heena Sidhu to win the national shooting championship. She went on to set records and win medals at various international competitions, including gold at the 2018 Youth Olympics.
Government Support and Investment
The Indian government’s support has played a crucial role in Bhaker’s success. Sports Minister Anurag Thakur revealed that approximately Rs 2 crores (around $240,000) were invested in Bhaker’s training. This included specialized training stints in Germany and Switzerland, highlighting the country’s commitment to nurturing Olympic talent.
Family Support and Aspirations
Behind every successful athlete is a supportive family, and Bhaker is no exception. Her parents’ joy knew no bounds when she clinched the historic bronze. They thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the government’s support in her journey. Interestingly, Bhaker’s mother had initially wanted her to become a doctor, but fully supported her daughter’s passion for shooting when it became clear where her talents lay.
Looking Ahead
Bhaker’s success marks the beginning of an exciting Olympic campaign for India. The Sports Minister is confident that other Indian athletes will also perform well.
As the Paris Olympics 2024 unfolds, all eyes are on the Indian team. Manu Bhaker’s bronze medal has ignited hopes for more medals. Her journey from the disappointment of Tokyo to the podium in Paris is an inspiration for all young athletes in India.
The Paris Olympics have started on a high note for India, thanks to Manu Bhaker’s achievement. As the Games progress, the nation watches with hope for more moments of glory and celebration.
–
Your writing has a way of resonating with me on a deep level. I appreciate the honesty and authenticity you bring to every post. Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
Thanks I have recently been looking for info about this subject for a while and yours is the greatest I have discovered so far However what in regards to the bottom line Are you certain in regards to the supply