On Friday, the 22-year-old Avani made history by becoming the first Indian to win back-to-back Paralympic gold medals.She accomplished this feat with a record-breaking performance in the women’s 10m air rifle (SH1) shooting competition.
Avani, who had previously triumphed at the Tokyo Paralympics three years ago, showcased her exceptional skills by shooting a remarkable 249.7, surpassing her own Paralympic record of 249.6 set in the Japanese capital.
“It was a very close final. There was very less gap between 1, 2 and 3. I was focussing on my thought process and not the result,” Avani said, as quoted by PTI after her historic win.
“I’m happy that the Indian national anthem was the first national anthem that got played in the arena this time too. I have two more matches to go so I’m focusing on winning more medals for the country,” the champion shooter added.
Avani’s company helped me: Mona
That day, Avani was joined on the podium by bronze medallist Mona Agarwal, marking a historic double victory for the country.
Mona said, “It was very difficult but I succeeded. So, thank you. Being in the company of Avani definitely helped. She is a champion and she inspires me.”
Mona, 37, experimented with various sports such as shot-put, powerlifting, and wheelchair volleyball before finally choosing shooting. She scored 228.7 points, securing the third-place finish.
This marks a historic moment for India in the Paralympic Games, as it is the first time two shooters have clinched medals in the same event.
Avani, a native of Jaipur, faced numerous challenges during her preparation for the Paralympics.
She battled several health problems, including undergoing gallbladder surgery, which necessitated a recovery period of one and a half months.
However, the dedicated shooter, who works as an assistant conservator of forest with the Rajasthan government, refused to let her health issues deter her from her goal of achieving Paralympic success.
The SH1 category is designated for athletes who have impaired movement in their arms, lower trunk, or legs, or those who have no limbs at all.
