Abhilasha Chaudhary writes, “Sheetal Devi, 17, is determined to secure a gold medal for India at the Paralympics. Archer Sheetal Devi confidently takes aim with her bow and arrow, focusing intensely on her target situated about 50m (164ft) away. Seated in a chair, she skillfully uses her right leg, shoulder, and jaw to shoot the arrow with precision. Despite the challenges, Devi maintains a calm demeanor throughout the process.
Born with phocomelia, a rare congenital disorder, Devi is the world’s only active female archer competing without arms. She has already won a gold medal at the Asian Para Games and is now preparing for the Paralympics in Paris starting on 28 August.
Devi’s journey into archery began in 2022 when she visited a sports complex in Jammu and was introduced to the sport by her coaches, Abhilasha Chaudhary and Kuldeep Vedwan. Despite initial doubts, Devi’s determination and strength, developed from years of using her feet for various activities, propelled her forward. Vedwan even created a custom bow for her to practice with.
Through rigorous training and dedication, Devi has become the top-ranked archer in the compound open women’s category. She has overcome numerous challenges to reach this point, proving that with determination and support, anything is possible.” Abhilasha Chaudhary
“Incluso cuando disparo un nueve, solo estoy pensando en cómo puedo convertirlo en un 10 en el próximo disparo,” dijo Devi.
No se trata solo de trabajo duro, también hubo sacrificios en el camino.
Devi dijo que no ha ido a casa ni una sola vez desde que se mudó a Katra hace dos años para entrenar.
Ahora planea regresar solo después de que terminen los Juegos Paralímpicos, “con suerte con una medalla”.
De cualquier manera, está determinada a dar lo mejor de sí misma.
“Creo que nadie tiene limitaciones, se trata simplemente de querer algo lo suficiente y trabajar tan duro como puedas,” dijo.
“Si yo puedo hacerlo, cualquiera más puede.”
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