Manu Bhaker has achieved something remarkable for Indian shooting at the Paris Olympics 2024. Winning a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event, she not only ended a long wait for India but also became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic shooting medal. Her journey from challenges to triumphs shows her dedication and passion for the sport.
Manu Bhaker, originally from Haryana, where boxing and wrestling are popular, chose shooting over other sports like tennis and skating. She even excelled in the martial art of thang ta. But it was watching the Rio Olympics in 2016 that sparked her interest in shooting.
At just fourteen, Manu convinced her father to buy her a pistol to pursue her passion seriously. She quickly showed her talent by winning a national championship against experienced shooters.
Her success continued internationally with strong performances at the Asian Junior Championships and close calls at the Asian Games. However, her breakthrough came at the Youth Olympics, where she won India’s first-ever shooting gold at sixteen years old. This made her a star in her country and set her up for success on the world stage.
Under the guidance of coach Jaspal Rana, Manu secured her place in the Indian team for the Tokyo Olympics through impressive performances in trials.
Although she faced disappointment in Tokyo due to equipment problems, Manu remained determined. Her hard work paid off at the Paris Olympics 2024. Despite starting fourth in qualifications, she kept her nerve in the final to win bronze with a score of 221.7.
Manu Bhaker’s bronze not only ended India’s medal drought in shooting but also showed her potential to shine on the global stage. Her journey inspires young athletes across India to chase their dreams with dedication and resilience.
Manu Bhaker’s bronze medal at the Paris Olympics 2024 is a historic achievement for Indian shooting. From a determined teenager with a dream to India’s first female Olympic shooting medalist, Manu’s story inspires athletes to believe in themselves and overcome challenges to succeed. As she continues to excel, her journey serves as a beacon of hope for future generations of Indian sports stars.
