Avani Lekhara: India's Paralympic Trailblazer with Back-to-Back Golds
Avani Lekhara's wheelchair is not the first thing people notice about her. Instead, it's her bright smile and confident demeanor that stands out. Despite her incredible achievements in Paralympic shooting, Avani remains modest and grounded. At just 22 years old, she has already made history by becoming the first Indian to win back-to-back gold medals at the Paralympics.
Overcoming Challenges
Avani’s journey to success has not been easy. After being paralyzed from the waist down in a car accident at age 11, she has faced numerous challenges. This year, she underwent gallbladder surgery, which forced her to take a break from training. The surgery impacted her core muscles, making her recovery even tougher. Despite this, Avani remained determined and focused on her goal for the upcoming Paris Games.
Preparing for the Future
Even with the setbacks, Avani is looking ahead. She is preparing for future events, including the women's 50m rifle 3 positions SH1 and mixed 10m air rifle prone SH1 competitions. Avani’s dedication was evident during her recovery period, as she worked hard to regain her strength and readiness for the Paris Games.
A Record-Breaking Performance
At the recent Paralympics in Chateauroux, Avani excelled once again. She won gold in the women's 10m air rifle (SH1) event, defending her title from the Tokyo Games. Her final score of 249.7 not only earned her gold but also set a new Paralympic record, surpassing her previous record.
Historical Achievements
Avani's victory marked a historic moment for India, as it was the first time the country achieved a double podium finish in the same event at the Paralympic Games. Along with her gold medal, her performance showcased India’s growing strength in Paralympic sports.
Also read: India’s Exciting Journey to the 2024 Paralympic Games
Looking Forward
As she continues her journey, Avani Lekhara remains focused and driven. Her achievements, including being the second Indian after javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia to win two Paralympic gold medals, are a testament to her dedication and skill. Unlike Jhajharia, who now leads the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), Avani’s successes span across two consecutive Games, highlighting her remarkable consistency and talent.
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