Athletics paralympics 2024: Rubina Francis won bronze medal in Paris 2024 Paralympics
On August 31, 2024, Rubina Francis made history by winning a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol SH1 event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. This achievement marks a significant milestone for India, bringing the country’s total medal count to five in these games. Rubina’s performance not only reflects her dedication and skill but also highlights the growing prowess of Indian athletes in para-sports.
Main Points
The Journey to the Medal
Rubina’s journey to the podium began with the qualification round, where she faced stiff competition from 20 other shooters. Despite a shaky start, scoring 180 out of 200 in her first series, she managed to pull herself together, finishing with a total score of 556. This score placed her sixth, allowing her to qualify for the finals. Her determination was evident as she improved her performance, scoring 95 out of 100 in one of her series.
In the finals, Rubina showcased her talent and composure. She started strong, hitting a remarkable 10.7, but faced challenges as the competition progressed. However, she maintained her position among the top shooters, ultimately securing a total score of 211.1. This score ensured her a spot on the podium, despite a fierce battle for silver against Turkey’s Aysel Ozgan, who finished with a score of 231.1. The gold medal was claimed by Iran’s Sareh Javanmardi, who scored an impressive 236.8.
Highlights of the Final
The final was intense, with Rubina initially placing third after the first series of shots. As the competition intensified, she managed to pull ahead with a score of 173.7 after 17 shots. Her final two shots, however, were crucial. She scored 9.2 and 8.9, which allowed Ozgan to overtake her for the silver medal. Nonetheless, Rubina’s consistent performance throughout the event secured her the bronze, marking her second appearance at the Paralympics, having previously finished seventh in Tokyo 2020.
Recognition and Support
Rubina’s achievement has not gone unnoticed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya praised her for her remarkable performance. They highlighted her dedication and the hard work that led to this success, inspiring many young athletes across the nation.
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The Significance of the Medal
This bronze medal is not just a personal victory for Rubina; it signifies a broader achievement for Indian para-athletes. It is India’s fourth medal in para-shooting at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, following the successes of Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal, and Manish Narwal. The growing medal tally showcases the commitment and talent of Indian athletes in the field of para-sports.
Rubina’s Background
Rubina hails from Madhya Pradesh and has been a passionate shooter for several years. Her journey in sports has been marked by resilience and determination. Prior to the Paralympics, she had a successful run, winning a silver medal at the Para World Championships in Lima, Peru, and a bronze at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. These accomplishments set the stage for her performance in Paris, where she aimed to improve upon her previous Olympic showing.
The Future of Para-Shooting in India
Rubina’s success is a testament to the growing support for para-sports in India. The government and various organizations are increasingly investing in infrastructure and training programs for para-athletes. This support is crucial for nurturing talent and providing opportunities for athletes with disabilities to excel on the global stage.
A Message of Inspiration
Rubina Francis’s journey serves as an inspiration to many. Her story encourages young athletes, especially those with disabilities, to pursue their dreams relentlessly. She emphasizes the importance of belief in oneself and the power of hard work. Her mantra, “Give 100 percent and believe in yourself,” resonates deeply with aspiring athletes everywhere.
