India emerged victorious at the Asian Para Archery Championships, securing a total of nine medals, including four golds, four silvers, and one bronze. Rakesh Kumar, ranked fifth globally, showcased exceptional skill, clinching three gold medals in the compound open men, compound men open doubles, and compound open mixed team events. His standout performance included a nerve-wracking final, where he overcame a two-point deficit to secure a narrow 145-144 win against Ken Swagumilang.
Sheetal Devi, a rising star from Loidhar village in Jammu and Kashmir, played a pivotal role, winning a silver in compound open women and contributing to victories in compound open women doubles and compound open mixed team events. Notably, Sheetal, born with Phocomelia, a condition causing under-developed limbs, became the first armless woman to secure a Para World Archery Championships medal—a silver—in July.
Rakesh Kumar's journey from a life-changing accident in 2010 to becoming a world-class para archer reflects resilience and determination. Coached by Kuldeep Kumar at the archery center in Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex, Rakesh's triumphs include winning the men's compound open section at the Fazza Para Archery World Ranking Tournament in 2021 and participating in the Tokyo Paralympics.
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Sheetal Devi's remarkable achievements within just two years of training underscore her dedication and talent, contributing significantly to India's success in para archery. Their victories reinforce the prowess of Indian archers on the international stage, surpassing traditional powerhouses South Korea and China.
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