Who is the youngest Indian athlete to win medal at Paralympics?

Published at :September 3, 2024 at 12:22 AM

Modified at :September 3, 2024 at 12:23 AM

(Courtesy : @Sheetal_archery/twitter)

India has been featuring in every edition of the Paralympics since 1984.

India has been breaking records and milestones at the Paralympics since the past few editions. The athletes have inspired the nation with their breathtaking performances. Since making its debut at the games in 1968, the country has come a long way. While in the start of the games the Indian contingent were seen in small numbers which slowly increased in numbers.

The nation won it’s first medal in Swimming as 27-year-old Murlikant Petkar won gold in Men’s 50 m freestyle 3. Over the years youngsters have come up to podium and won accolades for the nation. At the same side, veterans have also shined in their respective events.

The young athletes have tested the limits and shattered barriers towards their way to the podium. The nation has seen teenagers winning medals and defeat world champions at the Paralympics.

How did Sheetal Devi become India’s youngest Paralympic medallist at Paris Paralympics?

Sheetal Devi at the age of 17 years, 6 months, 19 days won the bronze medal in Mixed Team Compound Open alongside Rakesh Kumar. It was her debut at the Paralympics as the Indian duo defeated Italy by a single point. Devi and Kumar had won India’s 13th medal at the Paris games.

The Paris Paralympics 2024 was held from August 28 to September 8. The Archery event was held from August 29 till September 5. Meanwhile, Devi and Rakesh Kumar were in action on September 2 and by that time the nation had collected 12 medals.

The duo’s consitency was displayed from the start of the games. Devi and Kumar set a world record of 1399 in the ranking rounds and went on to defeat Indonesia. The Indian pair lost to Iran in the semfinals and was set to face Italy in the bronze medal playoffs.

In the semi-finals, 39-year-old Kumar and 17-year-old Devi beat Italy 156-155. She went to create history for the nation after securing the bronze medal with Kumar.

Also Read: Which sports are India participating in for the first time at Paris Paralympics 2024?

Devi as an armless archer has proved that determination and the will to succeed overcomes all hurdles in life. She has inspired athletes all over the world to reach new heights.

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Who is the youngest Indian athlete to win medal at Paralympics?

India has been featuring in every edition of the Paralympics since 1984.

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How did Sheetal Devi become India’s youngest Paralympic medallist at Paris Paralympics?