Ace Indian shooter Avani Lekhara has set her sights on further success at the Paris Paralympics, following her historic achievement of winning back-to-back gold medals. On Friday, Avani became the first Indian to claim successive Paralympic gold medals with a record-breaking performance in the women’s 10m air rifle (SH1) shooting competition.
At just 22 years old, Avani Lekhara achieved a remarkable score of 249.7, surpassing her own Paralympic record of 249.6 set at the Tokyo Paralympics three years ago. Her precision and focus ensured a top finish in a fiercely competitive final. “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 reflected on her achievement.
Avani expressed her pride in hearing the Indian national anthem played first at the arena once again. She remains determined to add more medals to her collection, saying, “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.”
In a historic moment for Indian Paralympics, Avani was joined on the podium by Mona Agarwal, who won bronze in the same event. This is the first time in India’s Paralympic history that two shooters have secured medals in a single event. Mona, who achieved a score of 228.7, acknowledged the influence of Avani’s presence: “Being in the company of Avani definitely helped. She is a champion and she inspires me.”
Mona Agarwal, 37, had previously participated in various sports such as shot-put, powerlifting, and wheelchair volleyball before dedicating herself to shooting.
Avani’s path to success was not without its challenges. She faced significant health issues, including gallbladder surgery, which necessitated a recovery period of a month and a half. Despite these setbacks, Avani, who works as an assistant conservator of forests with the Rajasthan government, remained focused on her Paralympic goals.
The SH1 category, in which Avani competes, is for athletes with movement impairments in their arms, lower trunk, legs, or those with no limbs. Avani’s determination and resilience continue to inspire and bring pride to her country.
With her historic win now behind her, Avani Lekhara is focused on her upcoming events at the Paris Paralympics, aiming to build on her success and bring further glory to India.