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'Proud That We Both Are Shooters': Paralympian Avani Lekhara On Manu Bhaker

Avani, became the first Indian to claim multiple medals at Paralympics when she won a gold and a bronze in Tokyo three years ago

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Avani Lekhara. Photo: SAI
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Tokyo Paralympics double medallist Avani Lekhara feels proud that her and Manu Bhaker, the double medallist at the recently-concluded Paris Olympics, are both shooters. (More Sports News)

Avani, became the first Indian to claim multiple medals at Paralympics when she won a gold and a bronze in Tokyo three years ago. Bhaker followed suit in Paris this year by becoming the first Indian since Independence to clinch multiple medals at a single Olympic edition. The 22-year-old Bhaker won bronze medals in 10m women's pistol and the mixed team event of the same sports.

Talking to SAI Media, Avani said: 바카라First of all I feel proud that we are both shooters. When I won two medals in Tokyo, it was a new awakening for women in sports in India바카라 a barrier was broken. Manu did the same and going forward, I wish more such barriers are broken.바카라

Avani who is gearing up for her second Paralympics in Paris clinched the 10m air rifle gold and the 50m rifle three-position bronze in the SH1 category at the Tokyo Games.

Avani is 바카라more confident바카라 going into the Paris Paralympics with the post-Tokyo phase helping in attaining more maturity and personal growth.

바카라It바카라s not about money or fame, the greatest takeaway in the post-Tokyo phase has been how my self-confidence has improved. From a shy introvert girl due to a disability to what I am today is a lot of change has happened for sure. Communication with various types of people have been personally enriching but the recognition and support that I am getting is the real success for me,바카라 said Avani.

Apart from shooting, the Jaipur-based shooter, who was rendered a complete paraplegic after a car accident when she was 12, continues her dream to become a judge one day. Avani has just completed her graduation (BA LLB) and plans to go for her Masters before she takes the final plunge into law by entering competitive examinations.

Avani believes that even though things have improved for people with disabilities, much more needs to be done.

바카라It바카라s much better now but we still need more awareness and visibility,바카라 she says.

India are sending their largest-ever contingent of 84 athletes to the Paris Paralympics which begin August 28 and go on till September 8.

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