Manu Bhaker Makes History: First Indian Woman to Win Olympic Shooting Medal in Paris Olympics 2024

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Manu Bhaker secures a bronze in the 10m air pistol event, marking a historic first for Indian women in Olympic shooting at the Paris 2024 Olympics
Manu Bhaker Makes History

Day 2 of the Paris Olympics 2024 brought a historic moment for India as Manu Bhaker became the first Indian woman ever to win a medal in shooting at the Olympics. The last time India won medals at the Olympics was at the London edition in 2012 when rapid-fire pistol shooter Vijay Kumar won silver and 10m air rifle marksman Gagan Narang clinched bronze.

This time, the young shooting sensation Manu Bhaker set a new record and bagged a bronze in the 10m air pistol event, marking a significant achievement for Indian sports.

A Day of Triumph for Indian Shooting

In a day filled with excitement and anticipation, Manu Bhaker’s performance was the highlight. Ramita Jindal set the tone by producing a stunning turnaround to reach the 10m air rifle final. Following her impressive performance, all eyes turned to Manu Bhaker, who was aiming for redemption and a medal in the 10m air pistol final.

As the competition intensified, Manu Bhaker displayed remarkable composure and skill. Her superb shot of 10.3 was nearly enough to clinch a silver medal. However, a Korean shooter hit a 10.5, creating a narrow margin of 0.1 points between the bronze and silver positions. Ultimately, Manu secured the bronze with her final shot, etching her name in the annals of Indian Olympic history.

The Journey of a Shooting Star

Manu Bhaker’s journey to becoming an Olympic medalist is as inspiring as it is impressive. Born in Jhajjar, Haryana, a state renowned for its boxers and wrestlers, Manu’s early forays into sports included tennis, skating, and boxing. She also excelled in a form of martial arts called ‘thang ta,’ winning medals at the national level.

However, it was her impulsive decision to try shooting at the age of 14, just after the 2016 Rio Olympics, that changed the course of her life. Intrigued by the sport, Manu asked her supportive father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, for a sport shooting pistol. Recognizing her passion and potential, her father provided her with the necessary equipment, setting the stage for her future success.

Rising Through the Ranks

Manu Bhaker’s rise in the shooting world was meteoric. At the 2017 national shooting championships, she made headlines by defeating Olympian and former world No. 1 Heena Sidhu. Manu shot a record score of 242.3, surpassing Sidhu’s mark and winning the 10m Air Pistol final. This achievement was just the beginning of her illustrious career.

In the same year, Manu won a silver medal at the Asian junior championships. Her impressive performance continued as she secured multiple medals and set records on international platforms, proving her mettle as a world-class shooter.

Overcoming Setbacks: From Tokyo to Paris

For Manu Bhaker, the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 was a challenging time. A pistol malfunction in the qualifications at the Tokyo Olympics had reduced Bhaker to tears, severely impacting her confidence.

However, three years can do a lot to one’s confidence. Manu Bhaker’s journey from contemplating retirement after the heartbreak in Tokyo to winning a historic bronze in Paris is a testament to her resilience and determination. This remarkable comeback story makes her the latest example of redemption in sports.

Paris Olympics 2024: A Historic Achievement

At the Paris Olympics 2024, Manu Bhaker faced intense competition from top shooters worldwide. Despite the pressure, she remained focused and determined. Her bronze medal win is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and resilience.

Manu’s performance at the Paris Olympics not only opened India’s medal account but also inspired countless young athletes back home. Her achievement signifies a new era for Indian shooting, highlighting the country’s potential to excel in global sporting events.

Manu Bhaker Makes History

A Glimpse into Manu Bhaker’s Training and Dedication

Manu Bhaker’s success is rooted in her rigorous training and unwavering dedication. Under the guidance of her coaches, she honed her skills and developed the mental toughness required to compete at the highest level. Her daily routine includes hours of practice, physical fitness training, and mental conditioning.

Her father’s support has been a cornerstone of her journey. Ram Kishan Bhaker’s encouragement and belief in her abilities have been instrumental in Manu’s rise as a shooting star. Together, they navigated the challenges and celebrated the victories, creating a bond that strengthened her resolve to achieve greatness.

Looking Ahead: Manu Bhaker’s Future Prospects

Manu Bhaker’s historic win at the Paris Olympics 2024 is just the beginning of her journey. As she continues to train and compete, she aims to achieve even greater heights in the world of shooting. Her eyes are set on future Olympic Games, world championships, and other international competitions where she hopes to bring more glory to India.

Manu’s journey is a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes, especially young girls who dream of excelling in sports. Her story proves that with passion, dedication, and the right support, anything is possible.

In a Nutshell!

Manu Bhaker’s bronze medal win at the Paris Olympics 2024 is a landmark achievement for Indian sports. Her journey from a small town in Haryana to the Olympic podium is a testament to her talent, hard work, and determination.

As the first Indian woman to win an Olympic shooting medal, Manu has etched her name in history and inspired a new generation of athletes. Her story is a shining example of what can be achieved with perseverance and support, and her future prospects promise even more remarkable achievements.

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