Avani Lekhara has been named ESPN India’s Female Para-Athlete of 2024 after cementing her legacy with her outstanding performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. This accolade comes after she successfully defended her Paralympic gold in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event, making her the first Indian athlete to win back-to-back Paralympic gold medals.
Avani Lekhara’s Paralympic Gold Defense At Paris 2024
It was groundbreaking enough when Lekhara triumphed at the Tokyo 2020 Games to become the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold and the first female multi-medallist. In Paris, though, she encountered an entirely new set of challenges: recovery from surgery before the Games, for starters, as well as tough competition within India. It was a journey not so easy, but one in which Lekhara displayed true grit to achieve her way onto the podium, delivering another memorable performance.
Avani Lekhara’s Clutch Performance At Paris 2024
The Paris 2024 final was a nerve-wracking affair, with the lead changing hands several times. Lekhara, who started slowly, demonstrated remarkable consistency, hitting only one shot below 10. As the competition heated up, she responded under pressure, including two critical shots—10.6 and 10.7—that kept her in contention. The final series was especially intense. With her lead narrowing, it seemed that Lekhara might lose the gold, but a shocking mistake by South Korea’s Lee Yunri, who hit a 6.8, gave Lekhara a chance to take a lead with a clutch 10.5 on her final shot. The result was an emotional moment for the young athlete as she clinched the gold again and made history in the process.
From Tragedy To Triumph
Lekhara’s road to success is one of perseverance and triumph. After a disastrous car accident at 11 left her in a wheelchair, she found solace in shooting, inspired by Abhinav Bindra’s autobiography. Her passion and dedication led her to Mumbai for training, where she honed her skills under national coach Suma Shirur.
Avani Lekhara’s Role In India’s Para-Sport Legacy
Lekhara’s success is reflective of the strengthening of the para-sport movement in India, wherein athletes not only overcome adversity but also transcend what was thought possible. It was not merely a question of technique that won Lekhara the victory in Paris; it was a question of mental strength and resilience.
A True Legend Of Indian Sports
Lekhara is the first Indian athlete to win two successive Paralympic golds. The recognition of Lekhara as the Female Para-Athlete of 2024 by ESPN India further strengthens her position as a true legend in Indian sports.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
