Mona Agarwal made history at the 2024 Paralympics by securing a bronze medal in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event on August 30. Her journey to the podium was not just about athletic excellence but also a testament to her resilience as a mother of two. Challenges, she faced leading up to the competition, particularly the struggle of balancing her responsibilities as a mother with her ambitions as an athlete.
Mona’s bronze medal
Mona’s bronze medalwin was a significant achievement, especially given the circumstances. She was in contention for the gold until the final round, where a slight misstep cost her the top spot. On the other hand,Avani Lekharaclinched the gold medalin the same category as that of Mona, which only extended the glory of India on Day 2 of Paralympics.
Who is Mona Agrawal?
- She isborn in Rajasthanand living withpoliofrom an early age, para-shooter Mona Agarwal is celebrated for her determination.
- She made her international debut at theWorld Cup in Osijek, Croatia,in July 2023. Agarwal won gold at the Para World Cup in Changwon, Korea, in April 2024.
- For theParis Paralympics, she secured her quota place by winning gold at theWSPS Para Shooting World Cup in New Delhiin March 2024.
- Now in the limelight alongsideAvani Lekhara,this isAgarwal’s debut Paralympics,and she has already made a significant impact.
About her training and disability
Training Base:Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range, New Delhi / Eklavya Sports Academy
Disability Class:SH1 (For Rifle- lower limb impairment e.g. amputations or paraplegia but with the ability to hold their gun without difficulty and shoot from a standing or sitting position).
Her struggle
The story ofMona Agarwalis one of grit anddetermination-her leaving homeat the tender age of 23 to live a life independent of shackles,excelling in HRand marketing despite enormousphysical challenges.In2016, she shifted her focus topara athletics.
Her Achievements
she started competing instate-level throw events,winning gold medals in all three categories. She has also participated instate-level para powerliftingin multiple categories.
Mona’s performance in 2024 Paralympics
Mona Agarwal’s remarkable achievements include abronze medal in the Women’s 10m Air Rifle SH1at theParis Paralympics 2024. She also securedgold at the New Delhi WSPS World Cup 2024in the10m Air Rifle SH1 event,setting a new Asian record with a score of 250.7, along with a silver medal in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team SH1 event. In 2023, she wongoldat theChangwon WSPS World Cup in Koreain the Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 category and claimed abronze medal in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team eventat the Osijek WSPS World Cup.
