November 28, 2023
Avani Lekhara: A Journey of Grit, Glory, and Gold, Paving the Way for Paris Paralympics Triumph
In the captivating realm of para shooting, Avani Lekhara stands as a beacon of inspiration, ready to etch new chapters in her remarkable journey from the triumphs of Tokyo to the challenges awaiting her at the Paris Paralympics. The 22-year-old shooting sensation, born in Jaipur in 2001, has not just embraced challenges; she’s turned them into stepping stones for success.
A Tokyo Tale of Gold and Bronze:
Avani’s Tokyo Paralympics saga unfolded as a testament to her resilience and talent. Clinching gold in the 10m air rifle SH1 and adding a bronze in the 50m rifle 3 positions SH1, she became the first Indian woman Paralympian to secure two medals in a single event. The world took notice, and expectations soared, but for Avani, pressure is the fuel that propels her toward greatness.
From Adversity to Adulation:
Avani’s journey into para shooting started in 2015, inspired by none other than Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra. A road accident in 2012 confined her to a wheelchair, but it was this adversity that became the catalyst for her extraordinary career. Junior world records paved the way, but it was Tokyo that catapulted her into the limelight.
Embracing Pressure as Motivation:
In an exclusive interview, Avani admitted to feeling the weight of expectations. “I would not say there is no pressure. After winning gold in Tokyo, I saw a lot of people who knew me and cheering for me. There are also high expectations, but it gives me motivation to do better and better,” she affirmed.
Staying Grounded and Focused:
Avani’s philosophy is simple yet profound – take one day at a time, stay in the present, and give her best. Refusing to dwell on past glory, she remains focused on the upcoming Paris Paralympics, aiming to bring more medals home for her country.
Training Regimen and Unchanged Formula:
While preparing for her next challenge, Avani adheres to a tried and tested training formula. “Training is the same as I believe that you should not change the tried and tested formula. I am focusing on my strength and learning from my mistakes. Hopefully, I will overcome those mistakes and perform even better in Paris,” she shared.
An Open Mind to New Horizons:
Having recently triumphed in the Hangzhou Asian Para Games, Avani, currently training in Jaipur, expresses openness to training abroad for the Paris Paralympics. This flexibility showcases her readiness to explore new horizons and adapt to evolving challenges.
An Inspiration Ready for New Chapters:
As Avani Lekhara gears up for the next chapter in her extraordinary journey, she stands not just as a shooter but as an embodiment of inspiration. Her story is a testament to turning adversity into advantage, facing challenges with courage, and emerging victorious on the world stage.
Avani’s Own Words: “I feel that if a lot of people are looking up to me, it is my duty to give my best whenever I go to the field. https://www.sportiwe.com/
