Manu Bhaker: Trailblazer in Indian Shooting
Manu Bhaker, a distinguished Indian sport shooter, recently etched her name in the annals of history by winning the bronze medal in the Women’s 10-metre air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This landmark achievement makes her the first Indian woman to secure a medal in shooting at the Olympics, symbolizing a significant milestone for Indian sports.
Manu Bhaker: Early Life
Born on February 18, 2002, in Goria village, Jhajjar district of Haryana, Manu Bhaker exhibited an early affinity for various sports. Her initial ventures included boxing, tennis, and skating. Her father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, a Chief Engineer in the Merchant Navy, was a pillar of support, financing her early training with a substantial investment of Rs 1.5 lakhs.
Manu Bhaker Rise to Prominence
Manu’s journey in shooting began at the age of 14, inspired by the 2016 Rio Olympics. Her rapid ascent in the sport was nothing short of remarkable. At just 16, she clinched a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, becoming the youngest Indian to achieve this feat. She continued her winning streak with multiple gold medals at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup in both the 10-metre air pistol and mixed team events.
Manu Bhaker Awards and Achievements
Manu Bhaker’s career is decorated with several notable accomplishments:
- 2018 ISSF World Cup in Guadalajara, Mexico: She won gold in the Women’s 10-metre air pistol event, becoming the youngest Indian to secure a gold in this competition.
- Commonwealth Games 2018: Set a new record with a score of 240.9 points in the women’s 10m air pistol event, securing gold.
- Asian Games 2022: Contributed significantly to India’s team gold in the women’s 25m pistol team event.
- ISSF World Cups 2019: Won multiple golds in mixed team events, demonstrating her prowess in both individual and team competitions.
Overcoming Adversity
Despite heading into the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as a top contender, Manu faced significant setbacks, including a malfunction in her pistol. This disappointment, however, became a pivotal learning moment, fueling her determination for future competitions.
Historic Win in Paris Olympics 2024
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Manu Bhaker’s perseverance paid off. She scored 221.7 points in the Women’s 10-metre air pistol event, earning the bronze medal. This victory was a monumental moment, ending India’s 12-year drought in Olympic shooting medals and marking her as the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting.
Inspirational Journey
Manu’s performance in Paris showcased her resilience and unwavering determination. Despite a challenging start, she maintained her composure and delivered consistently high scores. Her journey to the bronze medal involved intense competition, particularly in the final rounds where she narrowly missed out on the silver but secured her place on the podium.
Manu Bhaker Legacy
Manu Bhaker’s journey from a small village in Haryana to the Olympic podium is a testament to her grit and dedication. Her historic achievement at the Paris Olympics has set a new benchmark for future generations of Indian shooters. As the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting, she has inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams with determination and perseverance.
Manu Bhaker’s story is a remarkable example of overcoming adversity and striving for excellence. Her achievements not only bring pride to India but also serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation.
Read More: The Rise of Esports: A New Frontier for Sports Lovers
Follow Prime of Sports for more news and Paris Olympics 2024 for more Olympics updates.
