After putting up a strong fight in the finals, Indian shooter Avani Lekhara missed out on a second medal at the Paralympic Games in the women's 50m rifle event, finishing fifth. Despite leading briefly in the final, a weak performance in the prone stage caused her to slip down the ranks. The event was ultimately won by German athlete Natascha Hiltrop, with Avani's compatriot Mona Agarwal failing to progress past the qualifying rounds.
Avani Lekhara's Fifth-Place Finish in Women's 50m Rifle at Paralympics
After claiming a historic gold medal in the women's 10m air rifle standing SH1 event, Indian shooter Avani Lekhara fell short of securing a second medal at the Paralympic Games in Tokyo. She finished fifth in the women's 50m rifle event.
Lekhara, who made history by becoming the first Indian women to win a Paralympic gold medal, put up a strong fight in the final. She briefly led the competition but a poor performance in the prone stage caused her to drop down the ranks.
The event was eventually won by German athlete Natascha Hiltrop, with Lekhara's compatriot Mona Agarwal failing to qualify for the final.
Background
Avani Lekhara is a 19-year-old shooter from Jaipur, Rajasthan. She was born with a spinal cord injury that restricts her mobility. Lekhara began shooting in 2015 and quickly rose through the ranks, making her international debut in 2018.
In addition to her Paralympic medals, Lekhara has also won two medals at the Shooting Para Sport World Championships and a gold medal at the Asian Para Games.
FAQs
1. What is SH1 classification in shooting?
SH1 is a shooting classification for athletes with physical impairments that affect their body below the waist. They compete in standing or kneeling positions.
2. How many medals has Avani Lekhara won at the Paralympics?
Avani Lekhara has won one gold medal and one fifth-place finish at the Paralympics.
3. Who won the women's 50m rifle event at the Tokyo Paralympics?
German athlete Natascha Hiltrop won the women's 50m rifle event at the Tokyo Paralympics.
4. What is the next major competition for Avani Lekhara?
Avani Lekhara's next major competition is the 2023 Shooting Para Sport World Championships, which will be held in Chateauroux, France.
5. How can I support Avani Lekhara?
You can support Avani Lekhara by following her on social media, attending her competitions, or making a donation to the Paralympic Committee of India.
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