Paralympics 2024: Sheetal Devi rallies behind Harvinder Singh’s golden victory
Xtra Time Web Desk: Sheetal Devi, the armless archer, was seen cheering for Harvinder Singh from the stands during the men’s recurve individual final at the Paris Paralympics 2024. On Wednesday, September 4, Harvinder made history by becoming the first Indian to secure a gold medal in archery at the prestigious event, defeating Poland’s Lukasz Ciszek in a dominant 6-0 victory.
Sheetal Devi, who had earlier earned a bronze in the mixed team compound event with Rakesh Kumar, anxiously watched as Harvinder delivered an impressive performance. After winning a bronze in the Tokyo Paralympics, Harvinder came into the Paris Games determined to claim the top spot, which he achieved with ease.
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In the final, Harvinder took an early lead, scoring 9, 10, and 9 in the first set, while Ciszek struggled with 9, 7, and 8. The second set was a close battle, as both archers began with 9s. However, Harvinder’s final 10 gave him a decisive 4-0 advantage. In the third set, Harvinder sealed his victory with two 10s and a 9, while Ciszek only managed a 7 and two 9s, securing gold for India.
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Harvinder’s achievement, calling it a "very special gold in para archery" and highlighting his precision, focus, and determination.
Despite missing out on a medal in the women’s archery event, Sheetal Devi made her mark by setting a new Paralympic record in the qualification round, briefly holding the world record before Turkey's Oznur Cure surpassed her score.
