In the realm of sports in India, athletes face immense challenges to carve a niche for themselves, especially those hailing from smaller towns. The struggle becomes even more daunting for athletes involved in sports other than cricket, where economic hardships are common. For those with physical disabilities, these hurdles multiply significantly. Nevertheless, the number of Indian athletes participating in para-sports is on the rise, along with their achievements. A shining example of this resilience is Rubina Francis, who not only overcame her physical limitations but also made history at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
Rubina Francis: A Trailblazer in Para-Shooting
Competing in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH-1 category, Rubina won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. At just 25 years old, she became the first Indian woman to secure a medal in pistol shooting at the Paralympics, scoring 211.1 points in the final. This victory not only brought her personal glory but also contributed to India’s medal tally, bringing the total to five at the event.
A Journey of Struggles and Triumphs
Rubina’s journey was not an easy one. Hailing from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, she was born with a weakness in her legs, making it difficult for her to stand straight. Her father, Simon, a mechanic, faced severe financial constraints but remained determined to support his daughter’s dreams. Despite the hurdles, Rubina’s passion for shooting grew.
Starting at Gun for Glory Academy
Rubina’s introduction to shooting came when trials were held at the Gun for Glory Academy founded by former Olympic medalist Gagan Narang. After a year of dedicated training, her skills began to improve, but financial woes hit hard when the local authorities demolished her father’s shop, plunging the family into even deeper economic distress. Despite these challenges, her father sought work by repairing motorcycles and did whatever he could to keep her shooting training alive.
Discovering New Opportunities
When it became impossible to continue at the Gun for Glory Academy due to financial constraints, Rubina’s family identified her determination and passion for the sport. She was eventually admitted to the State Shooting Academy in Bhopal, where the state government took on her expenses, enabling her to continue her training without financial worry.
Ascending to the Top
Over time, Rubina began competing in national and international events, rapidly emerging as India’s top female para-shooter. Her first major achievement came in 2018 when she qualified for the Para Asian Games. She soon collected numerous international medals, but her crowning moment arrived in 2021. During the Para Sport Cup in Peru, she set a world record by scoring 238.1 points, leading to her qualification for the Tokyo Paralympics.
Tokyo Debut and Continued Perseverance
In Tokyo, despite her commendable performance that took her to the finals, Rubina finished seventh, but she didn’t let this setback deter her. With unwavering determination, she returned to the training ground, setting her sights on the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, where she ultimately realized her dream by winning the bronze medal.
Conclusion: An Inspiring Legacy
Rubina Francis’s journey is a story of resilience, dedication, and the power of dreams. From dealing with personal and economic hardships to achieving a historic milestone in para-shooting, Rubina continues to inspire numerous aspiring athletes across India. Her success not only marks a significant achievement in her career but also sets a precedent for future generations of para-athletes, proving that with determination and unwavering support, any goal is attainable.
