J&K Archers Sheetal Devi, Rakesh Kumar make history with Paralympic bronze

Srinagar, Sep 03: In a landmark achievement for Indian para-sports, Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar from Jammu and Kashmir secured a bronze medal in the compound open archery mixed team event at the Paris Paralympics 2024.

This victory marks the first Olympic medal for J&K and only the second Paralympic archery medal for India.

The duo’s journey to the podium was nothing short of dramatic. In a heart-pounding face-off against Italy’s Matteo Bonacina and Eleonora Sarti, Devi and Kumar clinched victory with a nail-biting score of 156-155. The match reached its climax when 17-year-old Sheetal’s final shot was upgraded following a review, securing their win in the closing moments.

Sheetal Devi’s path to Paralympic success is particularly remarkable. Born in 2007 with phocomelia, a rare congenital disorder resulting in underdeveloped limbs, Sheetal has defied expectations by mastering archery using her feet. Her journey began in 2019 when her exceptional athletic abilities caught the attention of Indian Army coaches at a youth event in Kishtwar. Within just 11 months of intense training, Sheetal was competing on the world stage.

Rakesh Kumar’s story is equally inspiring. The 39-year-old from Katra faced a life-altering accident in 2010 that left both his legs paralyzed. Despite considering suicide in the aftermath, Rakesh found a new purpose in archery when he joined a local training centre in 2017. His dedication and perseverance have now culminated in this historic Paralympic medal.

The significance of their achievement extends beyond personal triumph. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed their victory on social media, stating, “Teamwork triumphs! Congratulations to Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar on winning the Bronze in Mixed Team Compound Open Archery. They have demonstrated remarkable dexterity and determination.”

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also expressed immense pride in the duo’s accomplishment, highlighting the inspiration they provide to millions across the nation.

In a post on X , LG Sinha wrote, ” Sheetal Devi & Rakesh Kumar have brought glory to the nation and immense pride to J&K by winning Bronze in Mixed Team Compound Open Archery event at #ParisParalympics2024. You inspire millions across the nation. Many congratulations on this remarkable achievement.”