The 2024 Paris Paralympics have already seen India clinch five medals, including a prestigious gold. However, amidst the celebration, a wave of disappointment came crashing down as archer Sheetal Devi was eliminated after a fiercely contested match. She faced off against Chilean competitor Mariana Juniga in the pre-quarterfinals, where a mere 1-point difference led to her exit from the tournament.
Close Call: Sheetal Devi’s Dream Dashed by Just 1 Point
In an exhilarating match, Tokyo Paralympic silver medalist Mariana narrowly defeated Sheetal Devi with a score of 138-137. The contest was marked by an intense back-and-forth, with both archers tied after the first three rounds. However, in the critical fourth round, Mariana gained a slight edge, extending her lead into the fifth round. This ultimately led to Sheetal’s heart-wrenching loss by just one point, breaking her dreams of winning a medal in Paris.
A Historic Debut: Trailblazing in Archery
At just 17 years old, Sheetal Devi made history in her debut Paralympic match by becoming the first armless archer in the world to participate at this level. In the ranking rounds, she scored an impressive 703 points, shattering existing world records. Competing with a remarkable skill set, she became the first Indian woman to surpass the 700-point mark in archery. Unfortunately, this record was quickly surpassed by Turkey’s Oznur Girdi Kür, who achieved a score of 704 points shortly after.
Overcoming Adversity
Hailing from a small village in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, Sheetal Devi embodies resilience. Born without arms due to a congenital condition known as Phocomelia, she has never let her disability define her. From a young age, she learned to adapt to her circumstances, mastering the art of archery while seated in a wheelchair. Using her right foot to hold the bow and her jaw strength to release arrows, Sheetal has amazed everyone with her incredible technique and determination.
Table: Achievements of Sheetal Devi
| Achievement | Description |
|---|---|
| World Record | First armless archer to score 703 points in a ranking round during the Paralympics. |
| Historic First | First Indian woman to score over 700 points in archery. |
| Inspiration | Her story of resilience inspires many, proving that challenges can be overcome with determination. |
Future Aspirations
Despite her recent defeat, Sheetal Devi remains a symbol of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes. With her incredible talent and persistence, she has not only made her mark in archery but has also become a role model for many who face their own struggles. Her journey has just begun, and the sports community eagerly anticipates her future achievements.
