Avani Lekhara created history at the 2024 Paralympics, becoming the first Indian athlete to win two consecutive gold medals.
Avni Lekhara won the first gold medal in Paralympics 2024. With this medal, Avni Lekhara's name was recorded in history, Avni Lekhara became the first Indian athlete to win two consecutive gold medals in Paralympic Games. In Tokyo Olympics 2020 also, Avni Lekhara won the gold medal with her brilliant performance, and then in the 2024 Paris Olympics, Avni Lekhara retained her gold medal. On this victory, she received congratulations from all over India. Avni Lekhara also thanked everyone by tweeting.
PARALYMPIC CHAMPION, BABY 🤩🥇
— Avani Lekhara अवनी लेखरा PLY (@AvaniLekhara) August 30, 2024
Elated to have defended my Gold Medal from Tokyo 2020. Work not done yet as there’s 2 more events to follow. Focused now on doing my best in them.
Thank you for all the wishes! 🫶🏽 pic.twitter.com/owH9xkkLB7
What is the SH1 shooting competition?
Paralympic shooting is a precision sport that is adapted for athletes with physical impairments. The SH1 category is one of the classifications in Paralympic shooting, specifically for athletes who have an impairment in their lower limbs but have sufficient upper limb function to support the weight of the firearm. This category includes athletes who use wheelchairs or have amputations but are able to shoot without needing a shooting stand.
Key Points about SH1 Category:
Disciplines: Athletes in the SH1 category compete in both rifle and pistol events. These events are further divided into 10m, 25m, and 50m distances, depending on the type of firearm used.
Athlete Support: SH1 athletes do not require any special support for their firearm, which distinguishes them from athletes in the SH2 category, who may require a shooting stand due to more significant upper limb impairments.
Competition Format: Similar to Olympic shooting, Paralympic shooting in the SH1 category follows a format of qualification rounds followed by finals. Athletes aim at a target, and their scores are determined by the accuracy and precision of their shots.
Rules and Equipment: The equipment and rules for SH1 are governed by the World Shooting Para Sport (WSPS), which ensures that the competition is fair and inclusive. Firearms and equipment must comply with specific regulations, and adaptations are made where necessary to accommodate the athletes' needs.
Classification: Classification in the SH1 category is determined by a panel of classifiers who assess the athlete's physical impairment to ensure they compete in the appropriate category.