The 19th Asian Games witnessed a momentous achievement for India as archers Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Ojas Deotale clinched the gold medal in the Compound Mixed Team event. On Day 11 of the competition, they etched their names in history, marking India’s first gold medal in archery at the Asian Games. Let’s delve into this remarkable victory and its significance in India’s overall medal tally.
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A Historic Triumph
India had been waiting with bated breath for its archers to strike gold at the Asian Games, and Jyothi and Ojas delivered. The Fuyang Yinhu Sports Centre was the stage for their spectacular performance as they faced off against South Korea in the compound mixed team gold medal match. The final scoreline stood at a nail-biting 159-158, showcasing the intensity of the competition.
India’s Medal Rush
This gold medal was a crucial addition to India’s burgeoning medal count at the 19th Asian Games. With this victory, India notched up its 16th gold medal in Hangzhou, surpassing its previous best of 70 medals in the 2018 edition in Indonesia. The country’s overall tally now stands at 71, with 25 silver and 29 bronze medals. India currently occupies the fourth position in the medals tally, trailing behind China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea.
The Thrilling Final
In the gold medal match against South Korea’s So Chaewon and Joo Jaehoon, the Indian duo of Jyothi and Ojas took an early lead by winning the first round 40-39. Chaewon and Jaehoon displayed formidable skills, with Chaewon striking a nine and 10 while Jaehoon managed two 10s. However, both Indian archers stepped up their game, securing two 10s each and maintaining their advantage.
The competition remained neck and neck in the second round, with both teams shooting a score of 40. However, a pivotal moment occurred in the third End when Ojas Deotale shot a nine, allowing the Koreans to win the round 40-39 and level the score at 119-119.
Seizing the Moment
In the final round, it was a battle of nerves, and Jyothi and Ojas showed remarkable composure. They both shot two perfect 10s each, while the Korean duo could only manage 39 points. A critical nine by the female Korean archer on the first arrow proved to be their stumbling block. In the end, Jyothi and Ojas secured victory with a score of 159-158, clinching the coveted gold medal.
A Milestone for Jyothi and Ojas
This victory marked a significant milestone for both Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Ojas Deotale as they claimed their first medals at the Asian Games. Their exceptional performance in the compound mixed team event has catapulted them into the limelight, and they are now in contention for more medals as they progress to the finals of their respective individual competitions.
Indian Women’s Kabaddi Dominance in Asian Games 2023
In addition to the archery triumph, the Indian women’s kabaddi team displayed their dominance in their last group stage game. They outclassed Thailand with a commanding score of 54-22, securing their position as group toppers. With this victory, India sets its sights on the semi-finals, where they will face Nepal in a bid to further solidify their kabaddi supremacy.
The gold medal won by Jyothi Surekha Vennam and Ojas Deotale in archery has brought immense pride to India at the 19th Asian Games. Their remarkable victory adds another chapter to India’s growing medal tally and serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation. As the games continue, all eyes are on Jyothi and Ojas as they pursue more glory in their individual competitions, while the Indian women’s kabaddi team aims to continue its dominant run in the semi-finals.
