Indian Archer Sheetal Devi showcased a brilliant performance in the Women’s individual compound open on the first day of the Paris Paralympics 2024 at Les Invalides on Thursday. The 17-year-old finished 2nd in the ranking round with a score of 703, exceeding both the previous World Record score and the Paralympics Record score.
Sheetal, known as the “Armless Wonder,” demonstrated consistency throughout her performance. She scored 348 in her first 36 arrows and then followed it up with a score of 355 in the next 36 arrows.
Öznur Cüre Girdi from Turkey secured the top position with a score of 704, registering both the World and Paralympics records. The current World record is held by Phoebe Paterson Pine of Great Britain with a score of 698, while Jessica Stretton held the Paralympics record with a score of 694.
India’s second archer in the competition, Sarita Adhana stood at the 9th spot with a score of 682. The elimination rounds, which take place on Friday and Saturday, will ultimately decide the medal winners.
In the Men’s Recurve Individual Event, Harvinder Singh, who won bronze at the Tokyo Paralympics, finished in 9th place with a score of 637. The knockouts of the event will take place on 4th September.