Lagatar24 Desk
Paris: After a historic performance in the qualifiers, Manu Bhaker is now eyeing the ‘Golden Girl’ title in the women’s 10m air pistol final at the Paris Olympics. Three years after her heartbreak at the Tokyo Olympics, Bhaker delivered a confident performance on Saturday, becoming the first Indian female shooter to reach the final of an individual shooting event at the Olympics.
Bhaker, a 22-year-old from Jhajjar, shot 580 to finish third in the qualifications. Hungarian shooter Veronika Major claimed the top spot with a score of 582, while the other Indian contender, Rhythm Sangwan, finished 15th with a score of 573.
Throughout the one hour and 15-minute session, Bhaker maintained her composure. As she prepares for the crucial final at the National Shooting Centre on Sunday, she carries the hopes of ending India’s Olympic shooting medal drought that dates back to 2012.
Bhaker’s journey to the final is particularly significant given her experience at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where a pistol malfunction during qualifications left her in tears. Reflecting on that moment, she described it as “one of the very sour memories of my life.” She had even considered quitting the sport but has since demonstrated the resilience that defines champions.
Her personal coach, Jaspal Rana, was visibly emotional, acknowledging that while her performance in the qualifiers was commendable, the real test lies ahead. “What happened today doesn’t matter anymore. Tomorrow is when it counts. We start afresh,” he told PTI, noting the heat factor in the range, which required Bhaker to stay hydrated.
Despite the challenging conditions, Bhaker excelled, shooting 27 inner 10s, the highest in the field of 44. She started strong, scoring 97 in both the first and second series, which kept her in the top ranks even as her compatriot Sangwan fell behind.
The only blemish in her qualification was an 8 in the fifth series, but Bhaker remained focused and secured her place in the final.
While Bhaker’s performance was the highlight, the Indian shooting team had a rough start, failing to reach the finals in the men’s 10m air pistol and 10m air rifle mixed team events.
Bhaker’s determination and skill have positioned her well to potentially become the only Indian shooter to win a gold medal in this Olympics, a feat that would mark a significant milestone for Indian shooting on the international stage.
