 |
|
Harvinder Singh, a 33-year-old archer from Haryana, India, has achieved a remarkable feat at the Paris Paralympics, securing a gold medal in the recurve open category. His journey to the top of the podium is a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity. Singh's legs were impaired due to a botched dengue treatment when he was just a year old, yet he refused to let this define his life. He embraced the challenges he faced and developed an exceptional ability to anticipate and adapt, traits that have been instrumental in his success in archery.
Singh's Paralympic journey began three years ago in Tokyo, where he etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian archer to win a bronze medal at the Games. This achievement marked the beginning of his record-breaking streak in Indian archery. In Paris, Singh showcased his unwavering determination and skill by securing five consecutive victories in a single day. His outstanding performance earned him a second consecutive Paralympic medal, surpassing his previous achievement by a significant margin. Singh's accomplishments are unparalleled in the history of Indian archery.
Beyond his sporting achievements, Singh is also a dedicated student, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in economics. This demonstrates his commitment to personal growth and development beyond the realm of sports. In the Paris Paralympics final, Singh faced a seasoned opponent, 44-year-old Lukasz Ciszek from Poland. He remained focused on each arrow, not allowing himself to get overwhelmed by the pressure of the moment. He displayed exceptional composure and skill, particularly in the final rounds, nailing three 10s in his last four arrows to secure a resounding 6-0 victory.
Singh's strategy of focusing on the present moment and taking each match one arrow at a time has been crucial to his success. He credits his teammates for instilling in him the belief that he could aim for the top podium finish. He dedicated his victory to his late mother, who passed away just before the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta. He remembers her fondly, acknowledging how happy she would be to witness his accomplishments. Singh's story is one of inspiration and perseverance, proving that with dedication and belief in oneself, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.
Singh's win not only brings glory to India but also serves as a powerful reminder that with hard work and resilience, anything is possible. His dedication to archery and his commitment to personal growth beyond the sporting arena make him a role model for aspiring athletes and individuals alike. He has demonstrated that with the right mindset and a willingness to embrace challenges, one can overcome adversity and achieve greatness.
Source: One arrow at a time: How Harvinder Singh became a Paris Paralympic gold medallist