Rubina Francis – Paris Paralympics 2024 : India continues to shine on the global stage, and this time, it’s the inspiring journey of Rubina Francis that has captured the nation’s attention. At the Paris Paralympics 2024, Rubina etched her name in history by securing a bronze medal in the women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 event, becoming the first Indian pistol shooter to win a medal at the Paralympics. Her remarkable achievement marks India’s fifth medal at the ongoing games, and her story is one of relentless determination and breaking barriers.
Let’s have a look into more details: Rubina Francis – Paris Paralympics 2024
Who is Rubina Francis?
Rubina Francis hails from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, and her journey to becoming a Paralympic medalist is nothing short of extraordinary. Born into a lower-middle-class family, Rubina faced significant challenges from an early age due to her leg impairments. Her father, Simon Francis, a mechanic by profession, struggled to support her burgeoning passion for shooting due to financial constraints. However, Rubina’s determination and her father’s unwavering support paved the way for her remarkable rise in the sport.
Rubina’s interest in shooting was ignited by her admiration for Olympic shooter Gagan Narang. In 2015, she began her journey in the sport, and by 2017, she had joined Pune’s Gun for Glory Academy, overcoming numerous obstacles along the way. Her perseverance paid off, and Rubina rapidly climbed the ranks in the world of para shooting.
Rubina Francis’s Road to the Paralympics
Rubina’s journey to the Paris Paralympics was built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and numerous accolades. She first competed in the Paralympic Games in Tokyo 2020, where she reached the final in the same event but finished in seventh place. Undeterred, Rubina continued to hone her skills and returned stronger for the 2024 Paralympics.
In the lead up to Paris, Rubina had a successful campaign, winning a silver medal at the 2023 Para World Championships in Lima, Peru, and a bronze at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. These victories positioned her as a strong contender for a medal at the Paris Paralympics, and she did not disappoint.
Bronze at Paris 2024
On the day of the event, Rubina showcased her exceptional skill and mental fortitude. Competing in the women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 category, she started strong, with scores that kept her in the top positions throughout the competition. After 20 shots, she was confirmed for a podium finish, holding second place with a score of 193. However, in the final rounds, a couple of lower scores allowed Turkey’s Aysel Ozgan to overtake her, pushing Rubina to third place with a total score of 211.1.
Despite the close finish, Rubina’s bronze medal is a historic achievement. Not only is she the first Indian pistol shooter to win a Paralympic medal, but she also solidified her place as one of India’s top para athletes. Iran’s Sareh Javanmardi won the gold with a score of 236.8, and Aysel Ozgan claimed the silver with 231.1.
Rubina’s achievement at the Paris Paralympics is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Her story is one of overcoming personal and financial challenges to achieve greatness on the world stage. As India’s first-ever pistol shooter to win a Paralympic medal, Rubina has not only made her country proud but has also inspired countless aspiring athletes, especially those facing similar challenges.
The SH1 category, in which Rubina competed, is designated for athletes with impairments in one arm and/or legs, such as those resulting from amputations or spinal cord injuries. These athletes demonstrate remarkable skill and determination, competing from either a standing or seated position.
With her bronze medal win in Paris, Rubina Francis has set a new benchmark for Indian shooters. Her journey is far from over, and the world will undoubtedly be watching as she continues to strive for excellence in her sport. Rubina’s success at the Paralympics is not just a personal triumph but a significant milestone for Indian shooting, inspiring future generations to aim high and overcome all odds.
FAQs
Who is Rubina Francis?
Rubina Francis is an Indian para shooter from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, who won a bronze medal in the women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 event at the Paris Paralympics 2024
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