Manu Bhaker Makes History with Bronze in 10m Air Pistol at Paris 2024 Olympics
Namaskar America, 28 July 2024
In an unforgettable moment for Indian sports, 22-year-old Manu Bhaker captured the nation’s heart by winning a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This victory not only brings India’s first medal at the Paris Games but also marks a monumental achievement as Bhaker becomes the first Indian female shooter to clinch an Olympic medal.
Manu Bhaker’s journey to the podium was a nail-biter, filled with intense competition and a dramatic finish. With a score of 580 in the qualification round and an impressive series of perfect shots, she secured her place among the world’s best, making her the first Indian woman in two decades to reach an Olympic final in an individual shooting event. Her final round performance was a showcase of nerves of steel and precision, leading to a well-deserved bronze.
Rising Star and Unwavering Dedication:
Manu Bhaker’s rise to prominence has been meteoric. She burst onto the scene with a stunning nine gold medals at the 2017 National Shooting Championships and a gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games at just 16. Her relentless pursuit of excellence and her impressive achievements, including multiple medals at world championships and Asian Games, have solidified her status as a superstar in Indian sports.
Government Support and Preparation:
Bhaker’s success story is also a testament to the comprehensive support provided by the Indian government. From financial assistance under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) to specialized training with her coach, Jaspal Rana, every step was meticulously planned. The support extended to crucial areas such as ammunition and weapon servicing, pellet testing, and barrel selection, ensuring she was in top form for the Olympics.
Social Media Buzz and Prime Minister’s Congratulations:
As news of her victory spread, social media was ablaze with congratulatory messages from fans, celebrities, and fellow athletes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reached out to Manu Bhaker, praising her phenomenal achievement and expressing how her success has inspired millions of young Indians. The hashtag #ManuBhaker trended on Twitter, with fans celebrating her resilience and skill.
Following her victory, Manu Bhaker expressed her gratitude and dedication to her supporters in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter): “Winning this medal is a dream come true, not just for me but for everyone who has supported me. I am deeply grateful to the NRAI, SAI, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Coach Jaspal Rana sir, Haryana government and OGQ. I dedicate this victory to my country for their incredible support and love.”
Looking Ahead:
With this historic win, Manu Bhaker has not only etched her name in the annals of Indian sports history but has also set the stage for future generations of athletes. Her journey from a small town in Haryana to the Olympic podium is a story of passion, perseverance, and unyielding dedication.
Namaskar America celebrates Manu Bhaker’s groundbreaking achievement, recognizing her as a symbol of hope and inspiration. As India celebrates its newest Olympic hero, the future of Indian shooting looks brighter than ever.
