By Rajni Pandey | July 29, 2024
On July 28, 2024, Manu Bhaker became the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal, clinching bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the Paris Olympics.
Image Credit: instagram.com/bhakermanu
Manu hails from Haryana, a state known for its wrestlers and boxers. She broke tradition by taking up shooting at the age of fourteen, inspired by the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Image Credit: instagram.com/bhakermanu
Before shooting, Manu excelled in various sports including tennis, skating, and martial arts, even winning national accolades. Her encounter with shooting was driven by her Olympic dreams.
Image Credit: instagram.com/bhakermanu
Manu made headlines by defeating Olympian Heena Sidhu at the national championships and quickly gained international acclaim with medals in junior competitions.
Image Credit: instagram.com/bhakermanu
At sixteen, Manu became India’s first Olympic gold medalist in shooting, securing her place as a rising star and national icon. Her success at the Youth Olympics marked a significant milestone.
Image Credit: instagram.com/bhakermanu
The Tokyo Olympics in 2021 were tough for Manu. Despite competing in three events, a critical equipment malfunction affected her performance, leading to a disappointing outcome.
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Determined to redeem herself, Manu trained meticulously with her coach, Jaspal Rana. Her focused preparation paid off as she entered the Paris Olympics with confidence and determination.
Image Credit: instagram.com/bhakermanu
Manu finished third in the qualification rounds and displayed remarkable composure in the final, securing the bronze medal and ending India’s 12-year wait for a shooting medal at the Paris Olympics.
Image Credit: instagram.com/bhakermanu
Manu’s journey from heartbreak to history inspires young athletes, especially girls. Her resilience and dedication highlight the importance of perseverance and mental fortitude in achieving dreams.
Image Credit: instagram.com/bhakermanu