India's Paralympic Stars Shine Bright with Five Medals, Including Lekhara's Historic Gold

India’s Paralympic Stars Shine Bright with Five Medals, Including Lekhara’s Historic Gold

India’s Paralympic contingent has made a remarkable start to the 2024 Games, amassing a total of five medals, including a gold for Avani Lekhara. Lekhara, who became the first Indian woman to win two gold medals at the Paralympics, successfully defended her title in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 shooting event, setting a world record score in the process.

Mona Agarwal added to India’s medal tally with a bronze in the same event, marking the first time India has achieved a double podium finish in a single Paralympic event. Rubina Farancis also secured a shooting bronze, while Manish Narwal claimed silver.

In archery, armless para archer Sheetal Devi set a world record score in the ranking round but ultimately finished second in her event. She also set a world record score with Rakesh Kumar in the compound mixed team qualification event.

Preethi Pal contributed to India’s medal haul with a bronze in athletics.

On Sunday, September 1, India will aim to continue its medal-winning momentum with a packed schedule of events. Avani Lekhara and Sidhartha Babu will compete in the Para Shooting R3 – Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH1 Qualification, while Rakshitha Raju will participate in the Para Athletics – Women’s 1500m – T11 Round 1.

Narayana Konganapalle and Anita will represent India in the Para Rowing – Mixed Doubles Sculls Final B PR3, and Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna will compete in the Para Shooting – Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Qualification.

Ravi Rongali will be in action in the Para Athletics – Men’s Shot Put Final F40 Final, while Avani Lekhara and Sidhartha Babu (if qualified) will compete in the Para Shooting R3 – Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH1 Final.

Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna (if qualified) will participate in the Para Shooting – Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Final, and Rakesh Kumar will compete in the Para Archery – Men’s Individual Compound Open 1/8 Elimination.

Nitesh Kumar, Suhas L.Y, and Sukant Kadam will represent India in the Para Badminton – Men’s Singles SL3 Semifinal and Men’s Singles SL4 Semifinal, respectively. Bhavinaben Patel will compete in the Para Table Tennis – Women’s Singles WS4 Round of 16.

Rakesh Kumar (if qualified) will participate in the Para Archery – Men’s Individual Compound Open Quarterfinal, while Nishad Kumar and Ram Pal will compete in the Para Athletics – Men’s High Jump T47 Final.

Rakesh Kumar (if qualified) will also compete in the Para Archery – Men’s Individual Compound Open Semifinal and Final, and Preeti Pal will participate in the Women’s 200m T35 Final.

Indian Archer Rakesh Kumar Triumphs in Paralympic Debut Despite Challenging Conditions

Indian Archer Rakesh Kumar Triumphs in Paralympic Debut Despite Challenging Conditions

Indian archer Rakesh Kumar made a remarkable start to his Paralympic campaign, showcasing his exceptional accuracy and composure in the compound men’s category. Despite challenging weather conditions, Kumar emerged victorious against Senegal’s Aliou Drame with a score of 136-131, securing his place in the pre-quarterfinals.

The heavy downpour posed a significant challenge for the archers, making it difficult to aim precisely. However, Kumar, an experienced archer and Asian Para Games silver medalist, remained unfazed. He began the match with a perfect 10 in the first end, setting the tone for his dominant performance.

Drame managed to narrow the gap slightly in the second end, but Kumar quickly regained control. He extended his lead to five points in the third end, delivering two flawless 10s that further solidified his dominance. As the contest progressed, Kumar continued to demonstrate his superior form, establishing a six-point lead by winning the fourth end.

Despite Drame’s efforts to mount a comeback, particularly with his strong performance in the final end where he dropped just one point, Kumar’s substantial lead ensured that his place in the last-16 was never in doubt. The Indian archer’s steady hand and unyielding focus proved too much for his opponent, securing a well-deserved victory.

Kumar’s performance has garnered widespread praise on social media, with netizens applauding his determination and ability to thrive in such testing conditions. One user even compared Rakesh’s excellent archery skills to viral Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec, who went viral on social media platforms during the Olympics.

The fifth-seeded Rakesh Kumar will now face Indonesia’s Ken Swagumilang, the 12th seed, in the pre-quarterfinals. With momentum firmly on his side, Kumar will be aiming to continue his winning streak and secure a spot in the quarterfinals.

Indian Archers Face Disappointment at Paris Paralympics 2024

Indian Archers Face Disappointment at Paris Paralympics 2024

India’s archery campaign at the Paris Paralympics 2024 suffered a setback on Saturday as Sarita Kumari’s impressive run ended in the quarterfinals, while Sheetal Devi, known for her remarkable feat of drawing arrows with her toes, bowed out in the last-16 of the compound women’s open category.

Sarita, the ninth seed from Faridabad, had displayed dominance in the first and second rounds. However, her dream run was halted by top-seed Oznur Cure Girdi of Korea in the last eight. Girdi, who had shattered the world record in the qualifying round with a score of 704 out of a maximum 720 points, showcased her prowess by shooting three perfect 10s in the second end, securing a five-point lead.

Despite Sarita’s efforts to match Girdi’s 30 in the third end and a perfect fourth end, the Turkish archer maintained her lead, ultimately wrapping up the match with a 29 in the fifth end.

Sheetal, who had also surpassed the previous world record of 698 by shooting 703, endured a setback in the second end, where she shot a 7-point red ring. This allowed Tokyo silver medalist Mariana Zuniga of Chile to gain an advantage, eventually defeating Sheetal 137-138 in the pre-quarters.

Despite Sheetal’s early elimination, Sarita had earlier showcased her dominance by defeating Italy’s Eleonora Sarti 141-135 in a one-sided pre-quarterfinal match. Sarita, who had won a team silver medal at the Asian Para Games last year, dropped just one point in the first end, securing a four-point lead. She maintained her control throughout the match, sealing the victory with two solid ends.

In the open class, archers shoot from a sitting position at a distance of 50m at an 80cm five-ring target made up of the 10-6 point bands.

Norris Grabs Pole at Monza, Reigniting F1 Title Race

Norris Grabs Pole at Monza, Reigniting F1 Title Race

The Formula One title race has been reignited after Lando Norris secured a stunning pole position for the Italian Grand Prix. The McLaren driver, who has been in impressive form this season, surged ahead of teammate Oscar Piastri to claim his second consecutive pole.

Norris’s pole position is a major boost for McLaren, which is looking to close the gap to Red Bull in both the drivers’ and constructors’ standings. Max Verstappen, the three-time defending champion, will start back in seventh place, giving Norris a significant advantage on a circuit where overtaking is notoriously difficult.

Verstappen’s lead in the drivers’ standings has been cut to 70 points, with nine races remaining. Norris’s victory at the Dutch Grand Prix last weekend and his pole position at Monza have put him firmly in contention for the championship.

“Another pole which is amazing,” said Norris. “To have two cars first and second when the field is as tight as it has been all weekend is a surprise, but a nice one. My lap, it hurts me to say, wasn’t a great lap. So a bit surprised at the end but very happy.”

The top six in qualifying were separated by less than two tenths of a second, highlighting the intense competition in Formula One. Mercedes driver George Russell will start third, ahead of the Ferrari duo of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz.

Lewis Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari at the end of the season, will start sixth on the grid in his final race at Monza as a Mercedes driver. There was a significant gap to the Red Bulls, with Verstappen 0.695 seconds behind Norris and just ahead of teammate Sergio Perez.

Alex Albon and Nicolas Hülkenberg rounded out the top 10, while Williams debutant Franco Colapinto will start 18th after being eliminated in Q1.

Jonnie Peacock: From Near-Death to Paralympic Glory

Jonnie Peacock: From Near-Death to Paralympic Glory

Jonnie Peacock’s journey to Paralympic stardom is a testament to resilience and the unwavering support of his mother, Linda. Diagnosed with meningitis at age five, Peacock faced the possibility of losing his life. However, thanks to the quick thinking of his mother and the skill of surgeon Per Hall, he survived, albeit with the amputation of his lower right leg.

Initially, Peacock struggled to accept his new reality, blaming his mother for his amputation. But with time, their bond grew stronger, and Linda became an integral part of his recovery and athletic pursuits. She ferried him to countless events and training sessions, instilling in him the resilience that would fuel his Paralympic success.

Peacock’s Paralympic debut in London 2012 was a triumph, as he claimed the 100m title at just 19 years old. He repeated the feat in Rio four years later, but a bronze medal in Tokyo 2021 left him hungry for more.

Now, at 31, Peacock is determined to reclaim his 100m crown in Paris. He believes his experience and the pressure of competing in a packed stadium will give him an edge over his rivals.

Peacock’s success extends beyond the track. He is a role model for countless young people, promoting the Tackle Meningitis campaign and raising awareness about the devastating effects of the disease. He credits his mother for his positive outlook and the unwavering support that has shaped his life.

NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Killed in Bicycle Accident

NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Killed in Bicycle Accident

Tragedy has struck the hockey world as Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were tragically killed in a bicycle accident on Thursday night in New Jersey. The 31-year-old Gaudreau, known affectionately as “Johnny Hockey,” and his 29-year-old brother were struck by a vehicle in Oldmans Township, approximately 50 miles from Trenton.

The driver of the car, a 43-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The Gaudreau brothers were reportedly returning home for their sister’s wedding on Friday.

Gaudreau’s death has sent shockwaves through the NHL. Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed his profound sadness, stating that Gaudreau’s “infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey.'”

Gaudreau, a native of New Jersey, played his first nine seasons with the Calgary Flames before joining the Blue Jackets in 2022. He represented Team USA in world championships and was known for his electrifying play and infectious personality.

The Columbus Blue Jackets released a statement expressing their devastation over the loss of Gaudreau, who they described as “not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”

“He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could. The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him,” the statement read.

The Calgary Flames also paid tribute to their former player, stating that “Johnny was and always will be a member of the Flames family and loved by all of Calgary.”

Gaudreau’s death is a tragic loss for the hockey community and beyond. His infectious spirit and exceptional talent will be deeply missed.

Italian Prodigy Andrea Kimi Antonelli to Replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025

Italian Prodigy Andrea Kimi Antonelli to Replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025

Italian prodigy Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to make history as he joins Mercedes in Formula One next season, replacing the legendary Lewis Hamilton. The 18-year-old from Bologna has had a remarkable youth career, winning multiple championships and showcasing exceptional talent.

Antonelli’s journey to Formula One began in 2022, when he dominated the Italian and German Formula 4 championships. He continued his winning streak in 2023, claiming the Middle East and European regional Formula championships. This season, he skipped Formula 3 and jumped straight into Formula 2, where he has impressed despite a slow start.

Antonelli’s breakthrough came at the Silverstone sprint race in July, where he secured his first victory. He followed this up with a win in the main race in Budapest two weeks later. Currently, he sits seventh in the championship with four rounds remaining.

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff expressed his excitement about the partnership between Antonelli and George Russell, another product of the team’s junior program. “Our 2025 driver line-up combines experience, talent, youth, and raw speed,” Wolff said. “We are confident that George and Kimi will bring a winning combination to the team.”

Antonelli’s move to Mercedes is a testament to his exceptional talent and the team’s belief in his potential. He will replace Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari after this season. The young Italian will have the opportunity to learn from one of the greatest drivers in Formula One history and contribute to Mercedes’ continued success.

Avani Lekhara Defends Paralympic Gold, Makes History with Back-to-Back Triumphs

Avani Lekhara Defends Paralympic Gold, Makes History with Back-to-Back Triumphs

Avani Lekhara, the trailblazing Indian shooter, has etched her name in Paralympic history by becoming the first Indian to win back-to-back gold medals at the Games. Her triumph in the women’s 10m air rifle (SH1) shooting competition in Chateauroux, France, is a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience.

Despite being paralyzed waist-down from a car accident at the age of 11, Avani’s spirit has never been dampened. Her infectious smile and humble demeanor belie the extraordinary achievements she has accomplished.

Her journey to Paris was not without its challenges. A gallbladder surgery in March forced her to take a break from training, but she refused to let it derail her dreams. With the support of her team, she worked tirelessly to regain her strength and focus.

In the final, Avani faced intense competition but remained composed. She shot a remarkable 249.7, breaking her own Paralympic record set in Tokyo. Her victory was a moment of immense pride for India, as she became the second Indian after javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia to win two gold medals at the Games.

Avani’s success is not only a personal triumph but also an inspiration to countless others. She has shown that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible. Her story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can prevail.

Manu Bhaker Meets Sachin Tendulkar, Draws Inspiration from Avani Lekhara

Manu Bhaker Meets Sachin Tendulkar, Draws Inspiration from Avani Lekhara

Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker recently had the privilege of meeting legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, an encounter she described as “very special.” The 23-year-old shooter expressed her admiration for Tendulkar, stating, “We all have watched him on TV. I have. Ever since I was a kid, whether he was playing cricket in the stadium or at various public shows, he was a part of my life. It was very special to meet him and interact with him.”

Bhaker’s meeting with Tendulkar took place in Mumbai on Thursday, and she later shared pictures of their encounter on social media. She revealed that she had spoken to Tendulkar before meeting him, and their conversation was “pretty special.” Bhaker said, “He told me how to face future challenges, what kinds of hurdles I might encounter, and how to move forward. It is always nice speaking to such legendary figures.”

Bhaker also took the opportunity to comment on Avani Lekhara, the 22-year-old who won a gold medal at the ongoing Paralympics in Paris. Bhaker praised Lekhara’s journey, saying, “Her journey has been nothing short of inspiring. To see her overcome all the challenges in her life and win medals for India is really commendable. It gives me immense happiness that everyone is talking about her.”

Bhaker’s meeting with Tendulkar and her comments on Lekhara highlight the importance of mentorship and inspiration in sports. Tendulkar’s guidance and encouragement can provide Bhaker with valuable insights as she navigates her future challenges. Similarly, Lekhara’s achievements serve as a reminder of the indomitable spirit and determination that can lead to success in the face of adversity.

India's Paralympic Stars Set for Action-Packed Saturday in Paris

India’s Paralympic Stars Set for Action-Packed Saturday in Paris

India’s Schedule at Paris Paralympics 2024: Saturday, August 31

India’s Paralympic contingent will continue their quest for glory on Saturday, August 31, with a packed schedule of events. Among the highlights will be the performance of armless archer Sheetal Devi, who has already made a strong impression in the women’s individual compound open event.

Morning Session:

* 12:00 PM: Para badminton – Mandeep Kaur vs Celine Aureline Vinot (Australia) – Women’s Singles SL3 Group B (Group Stage)
* 1:00 PM: Para shooting – Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar – R1 Men’s 10m Air Rifle SH1 Standing (Qualification)
* 1:20 PM: Para badminton – Nitish Kumar vs Mongkhon Bunsun (Thailand) – Men’s Singles SL3 Group A (Group Stage)
* 1:30 PM: Para cycling – Jyoti Gaderiya – Women’s 500m Time Trial C1-C3 (Qualification)
* 1:49 PM: Para cycling – Arshad Shaik – Men’s 1000m Time Trial C1-C3 (Qualification)
* 2:00 PM: Para badminton – Manoj Sarkar vs Ynag Jianyuan (China) – Men’s Singles SL3 Group A (Group Stage)

Afternoon Session:

* 2:40 PM: Para rowing – Anita/Narayana – PR 3 Mixed Doubles Sculls (Repechage)
* 2:40 PM: Para badminton – Sukant Kadam vs Siripong Teamarrom (Thailand) – Men’s Singles SL4 Group B (Group Stage)
* 3:20 PM: Para badminton – Tarun Dhillon vs Lucas Mazur (France) – Men’s Singles SL4 Group D (Group Stage)
* 3:30 PM: Para shooting – Rubina Francis – P2 Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 (Qualification)
* 3:45 PM: Para shooting – Subject to Qualification – R1 Men’s 10m Air Rifle SH1 Standing (Finals)
* 4:00 PM: Para badminton – Manisha Ramadas vs Yang Qiu Xia (China) – Women’s Singles SU5 Group C (Group Stage)

Evening Session:

* 5:05 PM: Para cycling – Subject to Qualification – Women’s 500m Time Trial C1-C3 (Finals)
* 5:32 PM: Para cycling – Subject to Qualification – Men’s 1000m Time Trial C1-C3 (Finals)
* 6:15 PM: Para shooting – Subject to Qualification – P2 Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 (Finals)
* 7.00 PM: Para archery – Sarita vs Eleonara Sarti (Italy) – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Round of 16)
* 8:59 PM: Para archery – Sheetal Devi vs Mariana Zuniga (Chile) – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Round of 16)
* 9:16 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Quarterfinals)
* 10:24 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Semifinals)
* 10:30 PM: Para athletics – Parveen Kumar – Men’s Javelin F57 (Finals)
* 11:13 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Bronze Medal Match)
* 11:30 PM: Para archery – Subject to Qualification – Women’s Individual Compound Open (Finals)

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