The second day of the Paris 2024 Paralympics was filled with thrilling performances, emotional victories, and groundbreaking achievements. It was a day that not only showcased the incredible skill and determination of para-athletes but also highlighted the spirit of the Paralympic Games. Among the standout moments, Indian athletes Manish Narwal and Avani Lekhara shone brightly, making the nation proud with their exceptional performances in shooting. This article takes a deep dive into the key events of Day 2 of the Paris 2024 Paralympics, focusing on the achievements of Narwal and Lekhara, along with other notable performances, the atmosphere at the Games, and the impact these athletes are making on the global stage. Manish Narwal, the young shooting prodigy from India, added another feather to his cap by clinching the silver medal in the P4 – Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 event. The 22-year-old, who had previously won gold at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, once again proved why he is considered one of the brightest stars in the sport. Coming into the Games, Narwal was among the favorites, having shown consistent form in international competitions leading up to Paris. However, the pressure of performing on the Paralympic stage is immense, and the competition was fierce, with top shooters from around the world vying for glory. Narwal’s preparation had been meticulous, focusing not just on technical aspects but also on mental conditioning, which is crucial in a sport where focus and precision are everything. The P4 – Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 event was a nail-biting affair. Narwal started strong, hitting several high scores early in the qualification rounds, which secured his spot in the finals. In the final round, the pressure was palpable as the shooters lined up their shots in front of a packed audience at the Paris shooting range. Narwal displayed nerves of steel, maintaining his composure even as the competition heated up. He traded leads with competitors from China and Ukraine, but a series of excellent shots in the final rounds cemented his position on the podium. Although he narrowly missed out on the gold, Narwal’s silver medal was a remarkable achievement, reinforcing his status as one of the top para-shooters in the world. Speaking after the event, Narwal expressed his happiness and pride in winning the silver medal for India. I gave it my all, and I’m thrilled to have won silver for my country. This medal is dedicated to everyone who has supported me, especially my family and coaches,” Narwal said. His humility and determination continue to inspire millions back home. While Narwal’s silver was a significant achievement, the day truly belonged to Avani Lekhara, who made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win two medals in a single Paralympics. Lekhara, who has already established herself as a trailblazer in para-shooting, added another golden chapter to her illustrious career with a gold medal in the R2 – Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 event.
Avani Lekhara’s journey to the top of the Paralympic podium is a story of resilience, grit, and unwavering focus. After a car accident in 2012 left her paralyzed from the waist down, Lekhara found solace and purpose in shooting. Her rise through the ranks has been meteoric, marked by multiple international victories, including a gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. In the lead-up to Paris 2024, Lekhara faced numerous challenges, including injuries and the pressure of maintaining her form. However, she approached these hurdles with the same tenacity that has defined her career, working tirelessly with her coach and support team to ensure she was in peak condition for the Games. From the moment the competition began, it was clear that Lekhara was in a league of her own. She started the qualification round with a near-perfect series of shots, displaying incredible accuracy and consistency. As she moved into the finals, her focus was unshakeable, and every shot seemed to hit the mark. Lekhara’s final score was not just enough to secure the gold medal but also set a new Paralympic record, underlining her dominance in the sport. Her performance was met with thunderous applause from the audience, as she became a two-time Paralympic champion, further cementing her legacy as one of India’s greatest para-athletes. In her post-event interview, Lekhara was visibly emotional. “This victory means everything to me. It’s not just a medal; it’s a testament to years of hard work, sacrifice, and the unwavering support of my family, coaches, and everyone who believed in me. I hope this inspires more girls and boys in India to take up sports and chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles,” she said, holding back tears. While Narwal and Lekhara were the stars of the day, several other athletes also put in commendable performances that deserve recognition: Indian para-badminton players continued to impress, with several athletes progressing to the knockout stages. The Indian contingent, which includes world champions like Pramod Bhagat and Krishna Nagar, showed great promise, raising hopes of more medals in the coming days. In the pool, India’s para-swimmers showcased their determination, with multiple athletes setting personal bests, even if they narrowly missed out on the finals. The competitive spirit and sportsmanship displayed were a testament to their dedication and hard work. India’s wheelchair basketball team put up a brave fight in their group matches, displaying great teamwork and skill. Meanwhile, Indian para-table tennis players also had a strong showing, with some advancing to the next rounds, signaling a bright future for the sport in the country. The Paris 2024 Paralympics have been a celebration of human spirit and resilience. The venues have been buzzing with energy, as fans from around the world gather to support their favorite athletes. The atmosphere at the Games has been electric, with each event filled with moments of triumph, emotion, and incredible displays of athleticism.
