Swapnil Kusale’s Historic Win
Swapnil Kusale made history by winning the bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions event at the ongoing Paris Olympic 2024 Match. This achievement marks the first time an Indian shooter has won a medal in this event. Kusale’s victory has brought immense pride and joy to the nation.
PT Usha’s Emotional Response
PT Usha, the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), expressed her excitement and nervousness while watching Kusale’s performance. “It was very exciting and a proud moment for us. I was so nervous and my heart was beating so fast because at one point he was sixth, he climbed up to fourth. From there, he reached the second spot and then went down to fourth. The last minute was exciting,” Usha told ANI.
Indian Shooting Contingent’s Success
The Indian shooting team has been impressive at the Paris Olympic 2024 Match, securing three bronze medals so far. PT Usha praised the shooters for their historic performance, noting that this is their best-ever showing at the Olympics.
Manu Bhaker’s Remarkable Performance
Manu Bhaker has been another standout performer for India. She has won two bronze medals and is expected to secure another in the women’s 25m pistol event. Usha mentioned that the IOA had been in close contact with Bhaker’s coach, Jaspal Rana, providing support whenever needed. “We knew that Manu was going to win. Now, we are expecting another medal from her,” Usha said.
Expectations from Athletics
PT Usha also discussed the expectations from the athletics contingent. She acknowledged the challenges in athletics but expressed hope for medals from defending javelin throw champion Neeraj Chopra and steeplechase racers. Usha is optimistic about India’s overall performance, hoping to see the country finish in the top 10 by the time it hosts the 2036 Olympics.
Swapnil Kusale’s Journey
Swapnil Kusale’s journey to the bronze medal was not easy. He finished seventh in the qualification round of the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions event, securing his spot in the final. In the final, Kusale finished third with an aggregate score of 451.4, earning India’s third medal in shooting at the Paris Olympics.
Other Indian Shooters
Indian shooters Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Swapnil Kusale both competed in the men’s 50m 3P qualification round. Kusale finished seventh with a score of 590-38x, while Tomar ranked 11th with a score of 589-33x, narrowly missing the final.
Manu Bhaker’s Redemption
Manu Bhaker’s performance at the Paris Olympic 2024 Match has been a redemption story. After facing a pistol malfunction at the Tokyo Olympics, Bhaker made a strong comeback, becoming the first Indian woman in 20 years to reach a shooting final in an individual event since Suma Shirur in 2004. Bhaker also secured a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event alongside Sarabjot Singh.
Conclusion
Swapnil Kusale’s bronze medal win and the overall success of the Indian shooting team have been highlights of the Paris Olympics. PT Usha’s emotional response reflects the pride and excitement felt by the entire nation. With promising performances from athletes like Manu Bhaker and expectations from the athletics contingent, India is on its way to achieving greater success at the Olympics. Stay updated with the latest Olympic 2024 News from IPL365.
