Indian Para-Archers: News, Wins and How to Get Better
If you love archery or follow Indian sports, you’ve probably heard the name of a few para‑archers making headlines. From medals at the Asian Para Games to strong showings at the Paralympics, these athletes are proving that focus and practice win every round.
Recent Highlights You Should Know
In the last year Indian archers like Deepa Malik (who switched from swimming) and Arun Sagar have taken home medals at regional meets. At the 2024 Asian Para Games, India lifted three golds, two silvers and a bronze in different bow categories. The biggest surprise came when a newcomer clinched a silver in the recurve division, beating seasoned rivals from South Korea.
The Paralympics in Paris also gave Indian shooters a platform to shine. Although no medals were won yet, several athletes hit personal best scores that qualified them for the next world championship. These results have sparked more funding talks and better training facilities across the country.
How They Train: Simple Tips From the Pros
Para‑archers focus on three main things: consistency, equipment fit and mental calm. First, they practice a set routine every day – 30 minutes of warm‑up, 90 minutes of shooting drills, then a cool‑down stretch. Repeating the same stance and grip helps their muscles remember the perfect form.
Second, they work with coaches to adjust bow weight, stabilizers and sight settings for each disability type. A well‑tuned bow can make the difference between a 5‑point shot and a miss. Many athletes use a custom‑made grip that fits their hand shape, reducing fatigue during long rounds.
Third, mental focus is trained with breathing exercises and short visualisation sessions before each series. The goal is to clear distractions and picture the target as clearly as possible. Even simple techniques like counting breaths for 10 seconds can boost concentration.
If you’re curious about trying para‑archery yourself, start by visiting a local club that offers adaptive equipment. Most clubs have modified bows or can help you modify a standard one. Ask the coach for a basic lesson on stance and draw technique – they’ll show you how to adjust based on your range of motion.
Support for Indian para‑archers is growing, too. The Ministry of Youth Affairs has launched a scholarship program that covers travel costs for international events. Private sponsors are also stepping in, providing high‑quality gear and physiotherapy services. This mix of government aid and private backing means athletes can focus more on training and less on logistics.
Looking ahead, the next big event is the 2025 World Para Archery Championships scheduled to take place in Dubai. Indian archers are already gearing up with intensified practice camps and diet plans designed for peak performance. Keep an eye on the official federation website for squad announcements – you’ll want to know which names make the cut.
Whether you’re a fan, a budding archer or just interested in inspiring stories, Indian para‑archers offer a blend of grit, skill and progress. Their journeys show that with the right support and dedication, any obstacle can be turned into a target you hit straight every time.
Heartbreak for Indian Para-Archers: Sheetal Devi and Sarita Kumari's Early Exit at Paris Paralympics 2024
Indian para-archers Sheetal Devi and Sarita Kumari faced early elimination in the women’s individual compound open category at Paris Paralympics 2024. Despite a strong start, 17-year-old Sheetal Devi narrowly lost to Tokyo 2020 silver medalist Mariana Zuniga. Sarita Kumari advanced to the quarterfinals but was beaten by top seed Oznur Cure Girdi.
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