Avani Lekhara: India's Double Gold Medal-Winning Para Shooter
Avani Lekhara's journey to becoming India's first female para shooter to win double gold medals at the Paralympic Games is a story of resilience, perseverance, and incredible talent. Her achievements have brought her into the spotlight as an inspiring figure not only in sports but also in the broader context of overcoming adversity.
Early Life and Turning Point
Born in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Avani's life took a drastic turn at the age of 12 when she was involved in a severe car accident, resulting in a spinal cord injury and paraplegia. Despite the physical challenges, Avani's spirit remained unbroken. Her father played a significant role in her recovery, encouraging her to take up sports as a form of rehabilitation. Initially interested in archery, Avani was inspired by Abhinav Bindra, India's first Olympic gold medalist in shooting, and decided to pursue shooting in 2015(Olympic News,https://www.oneindia.com/).
Rise to Fame
Avani's dedication to shooting quickly bore fruit. She began competing nationally and internationally, soon establishing herself as a formidable shooter. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, Avani made history by winning the gold medal in the women's 10m air rifle standing SH1 event, making her the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the Paralympic Games. She also won a bronze in the women's 50m rifle three positions SH1 event, showcasing her versatility and skill
Record-Breaking Performances
In 2024, Avani further cemented her place in history by successfully defending her title at the Paris Paralympic Games. She won the gold medal again in the 10m air rifle standing SH1 event with a record score of 249.7, breaking her previous record from Tokyo. This achievement made her the first Indian woman to win two gold medals at the Paralympic Games, a testament to her consistent performance and focus(Olympic News, Paralympic).
Beyond the Shooting Range
Apart from her achievements in sports, Avani is also focused on her academic pursuits. She is currently pursuing a five-year law degree, balancing her studies with rigorous training and competitions. Avani's journey from a traumatic accident to becoming a world-class athlete has made her an inspiring figure for many. She often speaks about how shooting brought her out of her shell, giving her confidence and a sense of purpose(Paralympic,https://www.oneindia.com/).
Looking Ahead
Avani Lekhara's story is far from over. With more competitions ahead, including upcoming events at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, she continues to train and aim for greater heights. Her journey is not just about winning medals but also about inspiring others to face their challenges head-on and pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles.
Avani's story is a powerful reminder of how determination and support can turn a life-changing event into a platform for achieving greatness. Her achievements have not only made her a celebrated athlete in India but have also highlighted the incredible potential of para athletes worldwide.