Paris: Avani Lekhara, India’s shining star at the Paris Paralympics 2024, narrowly missed out on securing her second medal. Despite a strong start and impressive performance, she finished 5th in the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 final. This result came after her incredible achievement of winning India’s first gold medal at the Paris Games in the 10m air rifle SH1 event.
Avani’s journey in the 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 final was full of ups and downs. She began with a strong kneeling position, where she scored a total of 150.9 after three series, placing her in second position. However, as the competition progressed, her standing position scores didn’t match her earlier performance. She scored 148.1 across three series, which dropped her down to 5th place. Unfortunately, this placed her in a challenging spot during the elimination round, where she couldn’t secure a medal.
Although Avani missed out on a second medal, her exceptional performance in Paris has not gone unnoticed. The Rajasthan government has announced a ₹3 crore reward for her gold medal victory. This reward is in line with a policy established in the state’s 2020-21 budget, which promises ₹3 crore for any athlete from Rajasthan who wins a gold medal in the Olympics or Paralympics. The policy also includes ₹2 crore for a silver medal and ₹1 crore for a bronze medal.
Avani’s journey has been one of inspiration and resilience. She previously made history at the Tokyo Paralympics by becoming the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the Paralympics, and she continued to shine in Paris. The ₹3 crore reward is not just a monetary prize, but a recognition of her hard work, dedication, and the pride she has brought to her country.
Avani Lekhara’s story is a testament to her determination and skill. Her achievements continue to inspire countless individuals across India and the world. As she returns home, Avani will not only be celebrated for her gold medal but also for her unwavering spirit in the face of fierce competition. Her journey serves as a reminder that true success is measured by the courage and perseverance shown along the way.
