Sheetal Devi Sets New Record in Paris Paralympics, Archers Shine Bright

Star Indian archer Sheetal Devi broke the World Record in Women's Individual Compound Archery qualification at the Paris Paralympics by scoring 703 points. Despite being overtaken by Turkey's Curuklu Girdi, Devi secured second place. Other Indian archers also performed admirably, raising medal hopes for India.

Star Indian archer Sheetal Devi delivered a remarkable performance on Thursday during the Women's Individual Compound Archery qualification at the ongoing Paris Paralympics. Devi shattered the previous World Record of 698 points by scoring an extraordinary 703 out of a possible 720.

Although Turkey's Curuklu Girdi later surpassed her with a new World Record of 704 points, Devi secured the second spot in the overall ranking round. She is set to compete in the round of 32 tomorrow. On the same front, Indian archer Sarita Devi amassed 682 points, landing her in ninth place in the standings.

In the men's individual compound archery, Rakesh Kumar garnered 696 points, securing fifth place, while Shyam Sundar Swami scored 688 points and finished 15th. Meanwhile, Harvinder Singh stood ninth in the men's individual recurve archery, with a score of 637 points.

As the Paris Paralympics progress, Indian athletes remain focused and determined, with several events yet to unfold. This year, India has sent its largest-ever Paralympic contingent, featuring 84 athletes across 12 sports, highlighting the nation's burgeoning para-sports ecosystem. Not just in numbers, India's participation also brings heightened medal prospects as the country aims to exceed its previous success in Tokyo.

Tokyo 2020 marked India's most successful Paralympic outing, securing 19 medals, including five golds, eight silvers, and six bronzes. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)