'Her journey has been inspiring': Manu Bhaker Celebrates Avani Lekhara's Gold Triumph at Paralympics

India had an incredible outing at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris as Avani Lekhara opened India's medal tally with a gold medal win. A rare moment was also witnessed when India had two podium spots, with Lekhara and Mona for the Women's 10m air rifle SH1 Event. Lekhara made history as she beat her own record and clinched the coveted gold medal. Avani received praise, and her shooting compatriot and Paris Olympics' double medalist, Manu Bhaker, also showered applause on her stellar performance.

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Manu Bhaker Exclaims Her Joy for Avani Lekhara's Gold Medal Win at Paralympics

While speaking to the reporters during an NRAI event, Olympian Manu Bhaker said that Avani Lekhara's journey has been an inspiring one. The double Olympic Bronze Medalist added that everyone needs to take lessons from the para-athletes who have won medals at the ongoing 2024 Paralympics in the French Capital.

"Avani's journey has been very inspiring...and the journey of other Paralympians as well. They have overcome their challenges and won the medal for the country. We all need to learn from this... I feel very proud... Congratulations to Avani," Manu Bhaker said.

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Avani Lekhara made history after he became the first Indian woman to win two Paralympic gold medals with her victory in the women's 10m air rifle (SH1) event in the ongoing Paris Para Games. Lekhara shot a superb 249.7 to eclipse her own record of 249.6 set during the Tokyo Paralympics. The defending champion shot 625.8 to be placed second behind Iryna Shchetnik in order to qualify for the final round.

While making her Paralympics debut, Mona shot 623.1 in the qualification and entered the final in fifth place. She took up the sport in 2022 and is a two-time World Cup gold medalist. Mona notched up 228.7 for the bronze. 

India had a spectacular outing in Day 2 of the Paralympics. After Avani Lekhara and Mona opened the medal tally for India, Manish narwal clinched a silver in the 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1. Athletics' dominance was also in display as Preethi pal secured a bronze medal in the women's 100m T35 final.