Manu Bhaker is an accomplished Indian sport shooter and Olympic medalist. At the 2024 Summer Olympics held in Paris, she achieved remarkable success by winning two bronze medals. She earned her first bronze in the women's 10-meter air pistol event, making history as the first female shooter from India to win an Olympic medal. In addition, Manu secured another bronze in the mixed 10-meter air pistol team event, becoming the first Indian woman to win two medals at a single Olympics.
Manu Bhaker was born on February 18, 2002, in Goria village, Jhajjar district, Haryana, India. Coming from a family with a sports background, Manu was exposed to various sports at a young age. Her father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, works as a chief engineer in the Merchant Navy, and her mother is a school teacher. Manu's family has always been supportive of her pursuits, encouraging her to explore different sports. Initially, she tried her hand at boxing, tennis, and skating before finding her passion in shooting.
Manu's interest in shooting developed when she visited a local shooting range with her father. The experience captivated her, and she quickly showed promise in the sport. Recognizing her talent, her father supported her decision to pursue shooting seriously. Despite limited resources, the Bhaker family invested in Manu's training, understanding the potential she held.
Manu Bhaker's rise in the shooting world was swift and impressive. She first gained national attention in 2017 when she won nine gold medals at the National Shooting Championships. This remarkable achievement highlighted her potential and set the stage for her international debut.
In 2018, Manu made her mark on the global stage at the ISSF World Cup in Guadalajara, Mexico. At just 16 years old, she won a gold medal in the women's 10-meter air pistol event, becoming the youngest Indian shooter to achieve this feat. Her victory was a testament to her skill, focus, and determination. Manu continued her winning streak by securing another gold in the mixed team event alongside her partner Om Prakash Mitharval.
Commonwealth Games and Asian Games
The year 2018 was a breakthrough year for Manu Bhaker. At the Commonwealth Games held in Gold Coast, Australia, she won the gold medal in the women's 10-meter air pistol event, setting a new Games record in the process. Her achievement was celebrated across India, and she became a household name overnight.
Manu's success continued at the Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she won a silver medal in the 10-meter air pistol mixed team event alongside Abhishek Verma. Her performance in these prestigious competitions solidified her status as one of India's top shooters and a promising talent on the international stage.
Tokyo Olympics and Further Achievements
Manu Bhaker's journey to the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 was highly anticipated. However, she faced disappointment when she did not secure a medal at the Games. Despite the setback, Manu's performance was commendable, and she gained valuable experience competing at the highest level.
Following the Olympics, Manu continued to excel in international competitions. She consistently secured podium finishes at World Cups and Championships, showcasing her growth as a shooter. Her ability to learn from past experiences and adapt to changing circumstances was evident in her performances.
Paris 2024 Olympics
Manu Bhaker's journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics marked a significant milestone in her career. Her participation in the Games was highly anticipated, as she was determined to make her mark on the world stage once again. Manu's hard work, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence paid off as she achieved remarkable success in Paris.
In the Paris 2024 Olympics, Manu Bhaker won two bronze medals, becoming the first female shooter from India to win a medal at any Olympics. This historic achievement made her the first Indian to win two medals at an Olympics since India's independence. Manu's success in Paris was a testament to her skill, focus, and determination.
Her first bronze medal came in the women's 10-meter air pistol event, where she showcased her exceptional shooting skills and composure under pressure. Manu's precision and accuracy were evident as she competed against some of the best shooters in the world.
Manu's second bronze medal was in the mixed 10-meter air pistol team event, where she partnered with Sarabjot Singh. Their teamwork and coordination were instrumental in securing the medal for India. Manu's success in the Paris Olympics was celebrated across the country, and she received widespread recognition for her achievements.
Awards and Recognition
Manu Bhaker's outstanding achievements in shooting have earned her numerous accolades and recognition. She has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Arjuna Award, which is one of India's highest sporting honors. Her success in international competitions has brought pride to the nation and inspired a new generation of aspiring athletes.
In recognition of her remarkable achievements, Manu is expected to receive the Khel Ratna and Padma awards before she turns 23. These awards are a testament to her dedication, hard work, and significant contributions to Indian sports.
Conclusion
Manu Bhaker's journey from a small village in Haryana to becoming a world-class shooter is an inspiring story of determination, perseverance, and talent. Her achievements have not only elevated Indian shooting on the global stage but have also inspired young athletes, especially girls, to pursue sports as a career.
Manu's legacy extends beyond her medals and records. She has become a role model for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that with hard work, dedication, and the right support, one can overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Her journey has highlighted the importance of nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for athletes to excel in their chosen fields.
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