Avani Lekhara and Mona Agarwal won Gold and Bronze, respectively in the Paralympics.
It was an impressive performance from both Indians in a tightly contested, rollercoaster final at the Chateauroux range. The 20-year-old Lekhara had to channel all her experience and composure to defend her title under immense expectations - which she did by breaking her own Paralympic record set in Tokyo.
Avani Lekhara, the 20-year-old para-shooter from Jaipur, claimed her second Paralympic gold medal, adding to her 10m air rifle standing SH1 title. Lekhara's impressive score of 453.7 points shattered the previous Paralympic record.
"I'm over the moon!" exclaimed Avani Lekhara. "My training and mental preparation paid off. I'm grateful for the support of my family, coaches, and teammates.”
Mona Agarwal, competing in her maiden Paralympics, secured the bronze medal with a score of 436.9 points. Agarwal's achievement marked India's first-ever Paralympic medal.
"I'm thrilled to contribute to India's medal tally," said Agarwal. "Avani's success inspired me to push my limits. I'm proud to share the podium with her.”
Result:
- Gold: Avani Lekhara (India) - 453.7 points (Paralympic Record)
- Silver: Zhang Cuiping (China) - 448.3 points
- Bronze: Mona Agarwal (India) - 436.9 points
