Rakesh Kumar, a Paralympic archer from India, has defied the odds to achieve remarkable success. Despite facing a life-altering accident, he found solace and purpose in archery. His journey from adversity to triumph serves as an inspiration to many.
Rakesh Kumar: An Excursion of Strength and Accomplishment
Rakesh Kumar, a refined Indian Paralympic bowman, has transformed individual misfortune into win. Notwithstanding encountering an extraordinary mishap, he found another way in bows and arrows, utilizing the game to beat difficulties and track down reason. His excursion from difficulty to progress is a strong wellspring of motivation for some.
An Enthusiastic Beginnings
Brought into the world in Katra, Jammu, Rakesh Kumar fostered an enthusiasm for toxophilism right off the bat throughout everyday life. Preparing thoroughly at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sanctuary Board’s Games Complex, he improved his abilities and supported a significant love for the game. His devotion and regular ability before long made him a rising star inside the Indian Paralympic toxophilism local area.
Beating Life’s Challenges
Rakesh’s process has not been without snags. A serious mishap left him with a long-lasting incapacity, however he was resolved not to allow it to direct his future. Rather than surrendering, he adjusted to his new reality with relentlessness and kept on pursuing his arrow based weaponry dreams. His persistence and uplifting perspective have made him a wellspring of motivation for everybody around him.
Accomplishing Worldwide Success
Rakesh’s devotion and difficult work prompted his development on the global stage. He addressed India at the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo, showing his extraordinary abilities and assurance. His presentation at this worldwide occasion gained him boundless esteem and appreciation from individual competitors and fans across the world.
An Image of Trust and Determination
Rakesh Kumar’s story represents the strength of the human soul. His excursion from confronting difficulty to accomplishing significance fills in as an encouraging sign for other people who face their own battles. Rakesh has shown that with devotion, flexibility, and a positive outlook, defeating even the most imposing difficulties is conceivable.
A Motivational Legacy
Past his accomplishments in arrow based weaponry, Rakesh Kumar plays become a part model for the overwhelming majority, motivating people to beat hindrances and follow their fantasies. His story isn’t just about sports however about the victory of self control and the quest for greatness, passing on a heritage that will keep on inspiring ages to come.
Brady Ellison, a titan in the world of archery, found himself agonizingly close to Olympic gold once again. In his fifth Olympic appearance, the five-time medalist came within a mere five millimeters of securing his first gold medal. This infinitesimal distance separated his arrow from the bullseye, ultimately handing victory to his opponent.
A Match for the Ages
The final showdown was a spectacle of archery brilliance. Both Ellison and his competitor delivered flawless performances, each scoring a perfect 30 in the final set, forcing a nail-biting shoot-off. The tension was palpable as the two archers released their arrows, their fates hanging in the balance. Ellison’s arrow was inches away from perfection, but it was his opponent’s that was just a fraction closer to the center.
A Legacy of Excellence
Despite the heartbreaking loss, Ellison’s career is a testament to his unwavering dedication and skill. A world record holder and considered one of the sport’s greatest, he has consistently performed at the highest level. With three silver and two bronze medals across five Olympics, his contributions to the world of archery are undeniable. This latest near-miss only serves to highlight his extraordinary talent and unwavering competitive spirit.
Ellison’s journey is a reminder that even in a sport of precision, where every millimeter counts, fate can sometimes intervene in the most dramatic fashion.
oh my god the gold medal archery match between USA and South Korea went to a sudden death one-shot closest-to-the-center competition and Team USA lost by 5.4 millimeters. that's .21 inches. I am going to throw up pic.twitter.com/gcH8cxU6mb
First competed internationally with a compound bow, switched to a recurve bow for the Olympics, developed several technological advancements for the sport
Health
Had Perthes disease as a child, wore leg braces for over a year
Family
Married Slovenian archer Toja Ellison in April 2016, has a son named Ty Ellison born in November 2020
Interests
Loves to cook, specialty dish is biscuits and gravy
Community Respect
Widely respected in the archery community
Ellison’s Olympic journey is a testament to unwavering dedication and sportsmanship. Though gold eluded him once more, his legacy as an archery icon remains unshaken. As he continues to inspire generations, the world eagerly awaits his next chapter.
Paris Olympics 2024-India’s men’s archery team is represented by a mix of youth and experience. Dhiraj Bommadevara leads the pack with a world ranking of 12. Veteran Tarundeep Rai follows in 31st place, while Pravin Jadhav is ranked 114th.
India’s Archers: Mixed Bag with Dazzling Dhiraj and Quarterfinal Berth!
Team Triumph: The Indian men’s archery team has secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the Paris Olympics! They finished third in the team standings with a score of 2013 points, showcasing strong teamwork. South Korea and France secured the top two positions.
Dhiraj Shines: Dhiraj Bommadevara delivered a stellar performance, soaring into the top five after the fifth set of the second half. He ultimately finished an impressive fourth place in the individual ranking round with 681 points.
Tarundeep Stays Strong: Veteran archer Tarundeep Rai displayed consistency throughout, securing a solid 14th place with 674 points.
Pravin Struggles: Pravin Jadhav, while contributing to the team qualification, had a challenging individual ranking round, ending in 39th place with 658 points.
Next Up: The Indian men’s team will now face either Turkey or Colombia in the quarterfinals. Both opponents present a tough challenge, but India’s strong performance in the ranking round bodes well for their next match.
Jul 25, 19:19-Dhiraj Bommadevara Shoots India into Top 10-Dhiraj Bommadevara has delivered a stellar performance, propelling himself to the 10th position in the men’s individual ranking round. This is a significant achievement for India. Tarundeep Rai follows closely behind in 15th place with 393 points, while Pravin Jadhav is currently ranked 38th.
Jul 25, 18:57-Tarundeep Rai Leads India’s Archery Charge-Tarundeep Rai has emerged as India’s top performer in the first half of the men’s individual ranking round at the Paris Olympics.
Jul 25, 18:40-India’s Archers Face Challenges in Ranking Round-The Indian archery team is facing a tough challenge in the ranking round at the Paris Olympics.
Veteran Tarundeep Rai has slipped to 23rd position with a score of 223 points, Dhiraj Bommadevara and Pravin Jadhav are currently placed 27th and 43rd respectively, with scores of 222 and 217 points after the completion of 24 arrows.
Jul 25, 18:37-India Makes Strong Start in Archery Team Ranking Round-The Indian archery team has secured a solid sixth position in the ranking round after completing 12 arrows, with a total score of 333 points. South Korea leads the standings with 343 points.
Individual performances saw Tarundeep Rai maintaining his 16th position.
India: 333 points – 6th place
Tarundeep Rai: 16th place
Paris Olympics 2024 LIVE Updates: A lot of hopes will be pinned on young talented archer Dhiraj Bommadevara to come good at the Paris Olympics. Image: Screengrab
Jul 25, 18:31-India’s Tarundeep Rai Shines in Archery Ranking Round-Indian archer Tarundeep Rai is leading the way for the country in the men’s archery ranking round at the Paris Olympics. He currently holds the 16th position after the second set. Dhiraj Bommadevara and Pravin Jadhav are closely behind in 36th and 37th place respectively.
Jul 25, 18:24-India’s Dhiraj Bommadevara Leads Strong Start in Archery-The men’s archery competition at the Paris Olympics is underway with a promising start for India. Top-ranked archer Dhiraj Bommadevara currently holds the 11th position after scoring 57 points in the initial rounds. His teammates, Pravin Jadhav and Tarundeep Rai, are close behind in 30th and 33rd positions respectively, both with 55 points.
Jul 25, 18:19-Dhiraj Off to a Strong Start-Dhiraj Bommadevara has made a promising start to the competition, currently leading the Indian contingent after the first six arrows. He’s secured an impressive 57 points, placing him in 11th position overall.
Let’s hope he can maintain this momentum!
Can India’s Men Secure a Top-Four Finish?
The Indian men’s archery team is currently in action, aiming for a strong performance in the ranking round. A top-four finish would be a fantastic achievement, securing a direct spot in the quarterfinals. It’s a challenging task, but with the talent on display, anything is possible. Let’s see if they can rise to the occasion!
The Olympic Cauldron was lit with a burning arrow on this day at Barcelona 1992. 🔥
Let’s see if they can improve their rankings at the Paris Olympics!
India’s Men Begin Their Olympic Journey
The men’s archery ranking round is underway at the Paris Olympics! Dhiraj Bommadevara, Tarundeep Rai, and Pravin Jadhav are representing India. Their performance here will not only determine their individual standings but also contribute to India’s overall ranking for the mixed team event. Let’s cheer them on!
Breaking Down the Records
As we gear up for the men’s archery event, it’s worth noting the incredible standards set by previous archers. The world record for the men’s ranking round stands at an astonishing 702 points, achieved by USA’s Brady Ellison. The Olympic record, on the other hand, belongs to South Korea’s Woojin Kim with a phenomenal score of 700 points.
Chasing Archery Greatness
The Indian archers have a tough act to follow! The current world record holder in the men’s ranking round is USA’s Brady Ellison with an astonishing score of 702 points. To put things in perspective, the Olympic record is held by South Korea’s Woojin Kim with a remarkable 700 points.
These are incredibly high standards, but our Indian archers are up for the challenge. Let’s see how they fare!
These records are a testament to the incredible skill and precision required in this sport. Let’s see if our Indian archers can challenge these benchmarks!
India’s Men Ready to Aim!
The countdown is on! India’s men’s archery team is about to take center stage. Let’s meet the archers who will represent India:
Tarundeep Rai: A seasoned veteran with three Olympics under his belt, Tarundeep brings a wealth of experience to the team.
Dhiraj Bommadevara: This young talent is making his Olympic debut. Known for his consistency and powerful shots, he’s one to watch.
Pravin Jadhav: Returning for his second Olympics, Pravin is a steady and reliable member of the team.
Ankita Bhakat, a 26-year-old archer, got India’s campaign off to a flying start at the Paris Olympics 2024! She played a key role in helping the women’s archery team secure a direct spot in the quarterfinals.
Leading the Charge
Ankita Bhakat emerged as the top performer among the three Indian archers in the ranking round. She impressed everyone with a score of 666 points, which landed her in 11th place. This was a significant improvement compared to her teammates, Bhajan Kaur (22nd with 659 points) and Deepika Kumari (23rd with 658 points), even the former World No. 1!
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
India’s strong showing in the ranking round earned them a fourth-place finish with a total of 1983 points. This impressive score placed them behind the archery powerhouses South Korea (2046), China (1996), and Mexico (1986). With this result, India secured a direct path to the quarterfinals, avoiding the need to compete in earlier rounds.
A Season’s Best Performance
Ankita Bhakat’s performance was particularly noteworthy because it was her best of the season. She displayed exceptional focus and skill, hitting the target consistently throughout the competition. Her impressive performance grabbed the headlines and raised hopes for India’s archery success in Paris.
Building on Past Achievements
Bhakat’s journey to this success began much earlier. She started archery training at the young age of 10 at the Calcutta Archery Club. She then honed her skills further at the Archery Academy in Jamshedpur. Her dedication and hard work have paid off, leading her to this impressive performance on the Olympic stage.
Looking Ahead: Challenging Matches
India’s next challenge will be the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the match between France and Netherlands. If they manage to win this round, they might face a formidable opponent in the semifinals – the mighty South Korean team! South Korea has a dominant history in women’s archery at the Olympics, having won a record-breaking nine consecutive medals.
Individual Competition
While Bhakat’s performance in the team event was a highlight, the individual competition also saw impressive displays. South Korea’s Lim Sihyeon stole the show by setting a new world record score of 694, putting her firmly in the lead. Her teammate, Suhyeon Nam, also performed exceptionally well, finishing second with a score of 688 points.
Ankita Bhakat’s impressive performance has sparked excitement and hope for India’s archery team at the Paris Olympics. Can they continue their winning streak and challenge the archery powerhouses? Only time will tell!
The 2024 Paris Olympics are upon us, and India’s archery team is ready to take center stage. Here’s a look at the six talented archers who qualified to represent India and chase Olympic glory:
India’s Men’s Team Enters Quarter-Finals
The Indian men’s archery team has secured a spot in the quarter-finals by finishing in third place in the ranking round with a total of 2013 points. Here’s a detailed look at the individual performances:
Archer
Position
Points
Dhiraj Bommadevara
4th
681
Tarundeep Rai
14th
674
Pravin Jadhav
39th
658
India’s impressive team performance ensures their advancement to the quarter-finals, setting a promising stage for the knockout rounds.
Paris 2024 Olympics LIVE- India Women’s Team Directly Qualifies for Quarter-Finals
The Indian women’s archery team finished in fourth place with a total of 1983 points, securing direct qualification to the quarter-finals.
Rank
Team
Points
1
South Korea
2046
2
China
1996
3
Mexico
1986
4
India
1983
Dhiraj Bommadevara : Men’s team –Dhiraj Bommadevara: This young talent is making his Olympic debut after impressing with his consistency and high average scores. Dhiraj’s calm demeanor and powerful shots make him a force to be reckoned with.
Tarundeep Rai : Men’s team – Tarundeep Rai: A veteran archer with three Olympic appearances under his belt, Tarundeep is a beacon of experience for the team. His participation marks a remarkable journey, and he’ll be looking to add an Olympic medal to his impressive collection.
Pravin Jadhav : Men’s team – Pravin Jadhav: Returning for his second consecutive Olympics, Pravin is a valuable asset to the team. His dedication and focus make him a reliable competitor, ready to contribute significantly to India’s campaign.
Bhajan Kaur: Women’s team – Bhajan Kaur: Another debutante, Bhajan Kaur has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Her powerful shots and ability to perform under pressure have secured her a well-deserved spot on the Olympic team. Bhajan will be aiming to make a lasting impression in Paris.
Deepika Kumari : Women’s team – Deepika Kumari: A household name in Indian archery, Deepika is a legend with three Olympic appearances and a hunger for gold. Her unwavering focus and mental strength have earned her the nickname “The Rebel Queen.” This could be her chance to finally claim the coveted Olympic gold.
Ankita Bhakat : Women’s team –Ankita Bhakat: A rising star, Ankita is making her Olympic debut. Known for her sharp technique and unwavering determination, she has impressed in national and international events. Ankita will be looking to make a strong statement on the biggest stage.
This team represents a perfect blend of experience and youthful exuberance. They have all trained tirelessly and proven their talent on the international stage. With their unwavering focus and a strong team spirit, India’s archery warriors are ready to conquer Paris 2024 and bring home the glory!
Paris Olympics 2024 Archery Schedule
Date
Day
Event
Participants
Round
Time
25th July 2024
Thursday
Women’s Individual Ranking Round
Deepika Kumari, Ankita Bhakat, Bhajan Kaur
–
1:00 PM
Men’s Individual Ranking Round
B. Dhiraj, Tarundeep Rai, Pravin Jadhav
–
5:45 PM
28th July 2024
Sunday
Women’s Team Quarterfinals
Subject to qualification
–
5:45 PM onwards
Women’s Team Semifinals
Subject to qualification
–
7:17 PM onwards
Women’s Team Bronze Medal Match
Subject to qualification
–
8:18 PM onwards
Women’s Team Gold Medal Match
Subject to qualification
–
8:41 PM onwards
29th July 2024
Monday
Men’s Team Round of 16
B. Dhiraj, Tarundeep Rai, Pravin Jadhav
–
1:00 PM onwards
Men’s Team Quarterfinals
Subject to qualification
–
5:45 PM onwards
Men’s Team Semifinals
Subject to qualification
–
7:17 PM onwards
Men’s Team Bronze Medal Match
Subject to qualification
–
8:18 PM onwards
Men’s Team Gold Medal Match
Subject to qualification
–
8:41 PM onwards
30th July 2024
Tuesday
Men’s Individual Round of 64
B. Dhiraj, Tarundeep Rai, Pravin Jadhav
–
3:30 PM onwards
– Women’s Individual Round of 64
Deepika Kumari, Ankita Bhakat, Bhajan Kaur
–
3:30 PM onwards
Archery – Men’s Individual Round of 32
Subject to qualification
–
4:15 PM onwards
Archery – Women’s Individual Round of 32
Subject to qualification
–
4:30 PM onwards
Looking Beyond the Individuals: India will also be fielding teams in the men’s and women’s recurve categories as well as the mixed team compound event. These teams are a collective force to be reckoned with, and the camaraderie and competitive spirit within the squad can play a crucial role in their success.
India’s archery contingent boasts a mix of experience and youthful talent. With their dedication, focus, and unwavering determination, these archers have the potential to rewrite history and bring home Olympic glory. So, tune in and cheer for India’s archery team as they take aim for gold at Paris 2024!
Pravin Jadhav, an Indian archer from humble beginnings, is no stranger to the Olympic stage. This talented athlete, born on July 6, 1996, overcame a childhood marked by hardship to become a national archery champion. After a successful debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Jadhav sets his sights on Paris 2024, determined to make his mark on the world stage once again. This is his remarkable story of resilience, talent, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Early Life
Pravin Ramesh Jadhav was born on July 6, 1996, in the drought-prone village of Sarade in Satara district, Maharashtra, India. He grew up in a family of daily wage laborers, living in a shack near a drain. During his teenage years, Jadhav sometimes accompanied his father to work on the farm. Despite these hardships, Jadhav showed an early interest in sports, participating in the 800 meters at the district level. However, his performances were hindered by undernourishment.
His school teacher, Vikas Bhujbal, recognized Jadhav’s potential and took it upon himself to bear the expenses for Jadhav’s training and diet. This support led to improved performances and Jadhav’s selection in the Krida Parbodhini school. After receiving training for one year in Balewadi, Pune, where his 800 meters timing improved, Jadhav shifted to Amravati to train in archery. Initially, he struggled with the physical demands of archery and was on the verge of being released from the academy. However, Bhujbal’s intervention and a final chance given by the academy allowed Jadhav to prove himself, retaining his place with a score of over 45 in five shots.
Pravin Jadhav ’s Archery Schedule at Paris Olympics 2024
Date
Day
Event
Round
Time
25th July 2024
Thursday
Archery – Men’s Individual Ranking Round
–
5:45 PM
29th July 2024
Monday
Archery – Men’s Team Round of 16
Round of 16
1:00 PM onwards
30th July 2024
Tuesday
Archery – Men’s Individual
Round of 64
3:30 PM onwards
Career
Pravin Jadhav first represented India at the 2016 Asia Cup Stage 1 in Bangkok, where he won a bronze medal in the men’s recurve team event. Later that year, he was part of the Indian B team in the 2016 Archery World Cup stage in Medellín.
Jadhav’s breakthrough came at the 2019 World Archery Championships. He was a member of the Indian team, alongside Atanu Das and Tarundeep Rai, which became the first men’s recurve team from India to qualify for the final since 2005. The team defeated sixth-seeded Canada, third-seeded Chinese Taipei, and hosts Netherlands to reach the final. Although they settled for silver after losing to China, their performance secured India a place at the 2020 Summer Olympics.
Jadhav made his Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and will represent India again at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Throughout his career, Jadhav has been supported by the sports NGO Olympic Gold Quest.
Personal Life
In 2017, Jadhav was recruited into the Indian Army under the sports quota after being spotted by Colonel Vikram Dhayal, coach of the compound team, during the 2016 World Cup. As of 2019, Jadhav holds the rank of havaldar in the Indian Army.
Achievements and Rankings
Pravin Jadhav has made significant strides in archery, both nationally and internationally. His achievements include:
World Archery Championships (2019): Silver medal in the men’s recurve team event.
Asia Cup Stage 1 (2016): Bronze medal in the men’s recurve team event.
World Cup Stage (9 caps): 1 Gold medal in the team event (2019).
Universiade (1 cap): Participation in 2024.
Asian Outdoor Championships (2 caps): 1 Silver medal in the team event.
Asian Grand Prix Circuit (1 cap): 1 Gold medal in the team event (2021).
As of 2024, Jadhav is ranked 114th in the world for men’s recurve, with his highest world ranking being 28th on April 11, 2022. His average arrow score over a two-year period is 9.2.
Personal and Professional Details
Category
Details
Full Name
Pravin Ramesh Jadhav
Date of Birth
6 July 1996 (age 28)
Birthplace
Satara district, Maharashtra, India
Sport
Archery
Discipline
Recurve
Support
Olympic Gold Quest
Olympic Debut
Tokyo 2020
World Ranking
114 (Highest: 28 on 11 April 2022)
Indian Army Rank
Havaldar
Medal Record
Event
Medal
Year
Location
World Archery Championships
Silver
2019
‘s-Hertogenbosch
Asia Cup Stage 1
Bronze
2016
Bangkok
World Cup Stage (Team)
Gold
2019
–
Asian Outdoor Championships (Team)
Silver
–
–
Asian Grand Prix Circuit (Team)
Gold
2021
–
Pravin Jadhav’s journey from a humble background to representing India on the world stage is a testament to his determination, skill, and the support he received from mentors and organizations. His achievements in archery continue to inspire many aspiring athletes in India.
Tarundeep Rai, a decorated Indian archer from Sikkim, has carved his name in archery history. Debuting at 19, Rai’s journey is marked by remarkable consistency and resilience. He has bagged numerous accolades, including a team bronze at the 2006 Asian Games and a silver at the 2010 Asian Games, becoming the first Indian archer to win an individual medal at the competition. Despite a shoulder injury and a hiatus, Rai’s comeback was strong, clinching a team silver at the 2019 World Championships and a Padma Shri in 2020. Currently ranked 31st globally, Rai’s focus is on the upcoming Asian Olympic qualifier, aiming to continue his legacy.
Tarundeep Rai’s Archery Schedule at Paris Olympics 2024
Date
Day
Event
Round
Time
25th July 2024
Thursday
Archery – Men’s Individual Ranking Round
–
5:45 PM
29th July 2024
Monday
Archery – Men’s Team Round of 16
Round of 16
1:00 PM onwards
30th July 2024
Tuesday
Archery – Men’s Individual
Round of 64
3:30 PM onwards
Early Life and Background
Tarundeep Rai was born on February 22, 1984, in Namchi, a scenic high-altitude settlement in South Sikkim. Coming from a family with a rich sporting heritage, Rai’s cousin, Indian football legend Bhaichung Bhutia, had already put Sikkim on India’s sporting map. Rai continued the family legacy in the realm of archery, carving out a distinguished career of his own.
Professional Debut and Early Achievements
Tarundeep Rai made his international debut at the age of 19 during the 2003 Asian Archery Championships in Myanmar. That same year, he was part of the Indian archery team that finished fourth at the World Championships in New York. The following year, he secured his maiden gold medal at the 2004 Asian Grand Prix in Bangkok.
Olympic Journey
Rai’s first Olympic appearance came at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Competing in the men’s individual recurve event, he finished 42nd overall. Despite making it through the ranking round, he was knocked out in the first elimination round by Greek archer Alexandros Karageorgiou. In the team event, India finished 11th.
Continued Success and Recognition
In 2005, Rai played a pivotal role in securing a bronze medal for the Indian men’s recurve team at the Asian Archery Championships in New Delhi, followed by a silver at the World Championships in Madrid. His contributions earned him the prestigious Arjuna Award that same year.
Asian Games and Injuries
The 2006 Asian Games in Doha saw Rai, along with teammates Jayanta Talukdar, Mangal Singh, and Viswash, win a bronze medal in the men’s recurve team event. However, a shoulder injury in 2007 sidelined him for almost two years, causing him to miss the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Resurgence and Historic Achievements
Rai made a strong comeback in 2009, winning an individual recurve silver and a team gold at the Asian Grand Prix in Tehran. The year 2010 was particularly notable, as Rai became the first Indian archer to win an individual medal at the Asian Games, securing a silver. He also won his first Archery World Cup gold in the men’s team event in China and a team silver at the Porec World Cup in Croatia.
Further Olympic Endeavors
At the London 2012 Olympics, Rai finished 17th in the individual event and 9th in the team event. Although he did not qualify for the Rio 2016 Olympics, he continued to compete at a high level.
Recent Successes and Recognition
In 2019, Rai, along with Pravin Jadhav and Atanu Das, won the men’s recurve team silver medal at the World Archery Championships in Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, securing India’s full quota allocation for the Tokyo Olympics. For his contributions to Indian sports, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2020.
At the Tokyo Olympics, Rai reached the quarter-finals in the men’s team recurve event but was eliminated in the 1/16 elimination round in the individual event. He continued his success by winning the mixed team gold medal at the 2022 Antalya World Cup with Ridhi Phor and a team silver in 2023 at the same venue with Dhiraj Bommadevara and Atanu Das.
Personal Life
An army man, Tarundeep Rai is married to Anjana Bhattarai, and they have a son named Nusam Singh Rai.
Personal and Professional Details
Personal Details
Information
Full Name
Tarundeep Rai
Date of Birth
February 22, 1984
Birthplace
Namchi, South Sikkim, India
Age
40
Spouse
Anjana Bhattarai
Children
Nusam Singh Rai
Cousin
Bhaichung Bhutia (Indian football legend)
Awards
Arjuna Award (2005), Padma Shri (2020)
Highest World Ranking (Individual)
9 (March 22, 2013)
Current World Ranking
31 (as of recent update)
Professional Details
Information
International Debut
2003 Asian Archery Championships, Myanmar
First Major Medal
Gold at the 2004 Asian Grand Prix, Bangkok
Olympic Appearances
Athens 2004, London 2012, Tokyo 2020
Best Olympic Finish (Team)
9th place at London 2012
Best Olympic Finish (Individual)
17th place at London 2012
Notable Achievements
Individual silver at 2010 Asian Games
Multiple World Cup medals (team and individual)
Major Team Medals
2019 World Archery Championships (Silver)
Recent Achievements
2022 Antalya World Cup (Mixed Team Gold)
2023 Antalya World Cup (Team Silver)
Recent Competitions
Event
Location
Date
Seed
Ranking
Asian Olympic Qualifier
Thailand
November 9-12, 2023
2
7th
Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
Japan
July 23-31, 2021
37
17th
London 2012 Olympic Games
Great Britain
July 27 – August 3, 2012
31
17th
Athens 2004 Olympic Games
Greece
August 12-21, 2004
32
42nd
Tarundeep Rai’s journey in archery has been marked by resilience and dedication, making him a notable figure in Indian sports. His contributions have not only brought laurels to the country but have also inspired a new generation of archers.
Dhiraj Bommadevara, a 22-year-old archer from Andhra Pradesh, India, is rapidly rising through the ranks. Ranked 12th globally, he dreams of securing India’s first Olympic archery medal. Dhiraj’s journey began at a local academy in 2006, and his talent shone through at the World Youth Championships in 2021. He has since bagged a team silver at the Asian Games and numerous World Cup medals, including a crucial individual bronze that secured India’s spot at the 2024 Paris Olympics. With his unwavering focus and determination, Dhiraj is poised to make history in Paris.
Detail
Information
Nationality
Indian
Born
3 September 2001 (age 22)
Occupation
Sportsperson
Hometown
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
Father’s Name
Bommadevara Shravan Kumar
Education
SRR and CVR Government Degree College, Vijayawada
Archery Training Start
2006
Army Rank
Havaldar
Training Academy
Volga Archery Academy, Army Sports Institute, Pune
Supported By
Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ)
Bommadevara Dhiraj’s Archery Schedule at Paris Olympics 2024
Date
Day
Event
Round
Time
25th July 2024
Thursday
Archery – Men’s Individual Ranking Round
–
5:45 PM
29th July 2024
Monday
Archery – Men’s Team Round of 16
Round of 16
1:00 PM onwards
30th July 2024
Tuesday
Archery – Men’s Individual
Round of 64
3:30 PM onwards
Career Overview
Bommadevara Dhiraj, an exceptional Indian archer from Andhra Pradesh, has made significant strides in the sport. He competes in recurve men’s individual and team events and is ranked 15th in the world. Dhiraj secured a spot for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Dhiraj was born in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. His father, Bommadevara Shravan Kumar, was a technical official in the Archery Association of India. Dhiraj began archery in 2006 at the Volga Archery Academy in Vijayawada. He pursued his degree at SRR and CVR Government Degree College. In 2021, he joined the Indian Army as a Havaldar after four years of training at the Army Sports Institute in Pune.
Rise to Prominence
Dhiraj’s talent quickly became evident, and he was selected to represent India at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. Alongside teammates Atanu Das and Tushar Shelke, he won a silver medal in the men’s team event, narrowly losing to the Republic of Korea in the final.
In 2023, Dhiraj participated in multiple international competitions, including the World Championships in Berlin and various World Cup stages in Antalya, Paris, Medellín, and Hermosillo. His consistent performance earned him several medals, including bronze in both individual and team events.
Key Achievements
One of Dhiraj’s notable victories came in January 2022 when he defeated Tokyo Olympian Tarundeep Rai in the ranking tournament at Hyderabad. In 2021, he also secured bronze medals in the men’s individual events at the World Cups in Guatemala City and Paris.
Olympic Ambitions
Securing an Olympic quota place in November 2023 was a significant achievement for Dhiraj. Despite aiming for a team quota, his individual success ensured India’s presence in the archery event at the Paris Olympics. Dhiraj is determined to make a mark at the Olympics and end India’s barren run in Olympic archery. His training at the Cherukuri Volga Academy and subsequent honing of skills at the Army Sports Institute have prepared him for this grand stage.
Conclusion
Bommadevara Dhiraj’s journey from Vijayawada to representing India on the world stage is a testament to his dedication and talent. With multiple international medals and an Olympic berth, he is poised to bring glory to Indian archery. His story is one of perseverance, hard work, and unwavering support from his family and mentors.
Dhiraj’s most significant achievement to date is securing a quota place for India at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This feat not only guaranteed India’s presence in the archery event but also marked a crucial step towards potentially ending the country’s long wait for an Olympic archery medal.
Dhiraj’s journey to becoming a world-class archer is an inspiring tale of dedication, talent, and unwavering focus. With the 2024 Paris Olympics on the horizon, the archery world eagerly awaits his performance as he strives to make history for himself and India.
Deepika Kumari, a name that resonates with excellence in archery, has made remarkable strides in her sport, becoming one of India’s most celebrated athletes. Born on June 13, 1994, in Ratu Chatti, Ranchi, Bihar (now Jharkhand), Deepika has shown exceptional talent and determination, earning accolades and admiration both nationally and internationally.
India’s Archers – July 25, 2024, 15:16:29 (IST)-All Women In Top 32, India Directly In Quarters
India’s Women Archers Conclude Ranking Round
The Indian women’s archery team has wrapped up the ranking round at the Paris Olympics with mixed results. Ankita Bhakat emerged as the top Indian archer, securing an impressive 11th position. Her final round showcased her consistency with five 9s and one X.
Bhajan Kaur finished in 22nd place, just one point behind her teammate. She displayed commendable composure throughout the competition. Veteran Deepika Kumari concluded her campaign in 23rd position, delivering a solid performance in the final round with four 10s, one 9, and one 8.
While the Indian women have shown glimpses of their potential, they will be aiming to elevate their performance in the upcoming elimination rounds to challenge for a podium finish.
Archer
Position
Final Round Scores
Notable Highlights
Ankita Bhakat
11th
Five 9s, one X
Consistency throughout the competition
Bhajan Kaur
22nd
–
Finished just one point behind Ankita Bhakat
Deepika Kumari
23rd
Four 10s, one 9, one 8
Delivered a solid performance in the final round
India’s Archers – July 25, 2024, 15:08:25 (IST)–Indian Archers Hold Strong After Penultimate Round
Ankita Bhakat continues to lead the Indian charge with a strong score of 612 points, placing her in eighth position. Bhajan Kaur is close behind in 19th place with 606 points, while Deepika Kumari is currently in 26th position with a score of 601.
Deepika Kumari, India’s archery star, heads to her 4th Olympics in Paris! Ranked 12th globally, the 30-year-old aims to conquer the Olympic gold after podium finishes at World Cups and Commonwealth Games.
Deepika Kumari: Paris 2024 Olympics Archery Schedule
Deepika Kumari is married to fellow archer Atanu Das. Their shared passion for archery has been a source of mutual support and motivation. Deepika’s journey from her humble beginnings to becoming a world-class archer highlights her remarkable perseverance and talent.
Early Life and Background
Deepika Kumari grew up in a modest household in Ranchi. Her father, Shiv Charan Prajapati, worked as an auto-rickshaw driver, while her mother, Geeta, served as a nurse at Ranchi Medical College. Despite financial constraints, her parents were dedicated to supporting her archery dreams. As a child, Deepika practiced archery by aiming at mangoes with stones. Her initial training involved homemade bamboo bows and arrows, thanks to the financial sacrifices made by her family.
Her talent was nurtured further by her cousin Vidya Kumari, an established archer at Tata Archery Academy. Deepika’s dedication and early practice laid the foundation for her future success.
Career Achievements
Deepika Kumari’s journey in archery has been marked by significant achievements and milestones:
2010 Commonwealth Games: Deepika won gold medals in both the women’s individual recurve and women’s team recurve events, alongside Dola Banerjee and Bombayala Devi.
2012 London Olympics: She competed in both the Women’s Individual and Women’s Team events, finishing 8th in the team event.
Archery World Cup: Deepika secured individual gold in two stages of the World Cup—one in Guatemala and another in Paris. Her victory in Paris marked her return to the number one world ranking after nine years.
2016: She was honored with the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, in recognition of her contributions to archery.
Awards and Honors
Deepika’s achievements have been recognized with several prestigious awards:
Arjuna Award (2012): India’s second-highest sporting honor, presented by President Pranab Mukherjee.
FICCI Sportsperson of the Year Award (2014): Recognized for her exceptional performance and contributions to sports.
Padma Shri (2016): Awarded by the Government of India for her outstanding achievements in archery.
Major Competitions and Results
Event
Location
Date
Seed
Ranking
Archery in Paris Final Olympic Qualifier
Turkey
June 14 – June 17, 2024
2
17th
Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
Japan
July 23 – July 31, 2021
9
8th
Asian Continental Qualification Tournament for Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
Thailand
November 28, 2019
1
–
Dhaka 2017 Asian Archery Championships & CQT for Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic
Bangladesh
November 24 – November 30, 2017
5
17th
Rio 2016 Olympic Games
Brazil
August 5 – August 12, 2016
20
9th
Aquece Rio International Archery Challenge (Test Event)
Brazil
September 15 – September 22, 2015
14
9th
London 2012 Olympic Games
Great Britain
July 27 – August 3, 2012
8
33rd
17th Asian Archery Championships (and Asian Olympic Qualifier)
Islamic Republic of Iran
October 18 – October 24, 2011
17
17th
Conclusion
Deepika Kumari’s career is a testament to her hard work, skill, and dedication. As she continues to represent India on the global stage, her story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes. With a career marked by notable achievements and accolades, Deepika Kumari remains a beacon of excellence in the world of archery.
Bhajan Kaur is a rising star in Indian archery. The 18-year-old from Sirsa, Haryana has already achieved a lot in her young career.
India’s Archers – July 25, 2024, 15:16:29 (IST)-All Women In Top 32, India Directly In Quarters
India’s Women Archers Conclude Ranking Round
The Indian women’s archery team has wrapped up the ranking round at the Paris Olympics with mixed results. Ankita Bhakat emerged as the top Indian archer, securing an impressive 11th position. Her final round showcased her consistency with five 9s and one X.
Bhajan Kaur finished in 22nd place, just one point behind her teammate. She displayed commendable composure throughout the competition. Veteran Deepika Kumari concluded her campaign in 23rd position, delivering a solid performance in the final round with four 10s, one 9, and one 8.
While the Indian women have shown glimpses of their potential, they will be aiming to elevate their performance in the upcoming elimination rounds to challenge for a podium finish.
Archer
Position
Final Round Scores
Notable Highlights
Ankita Bhakat
11th
Five 9s, one X
Consistency throughout the competition
Bhajan Kaur
22nd
–
Finished just one point behind Ankita Bhakat
Deepika Kumari
23rd
Four 10s, one 9, one 8
Delivered a solid performance in the final round
India’s Archers – July 25, 2024, 15:08:25 (IST)–Indian Archers Hold Strong After Penultimate Round
Ankita Bhakat continues to lead the Indian charge with a strong score of 612 points, placing her in eighth position. Bhajan Kaur is close behind in 19th place with 606 points, while Deepika Kumari is currently in 26th position with a score of 601.
Bhajan Kaur is from Ellenabad, Sirsa, Haryana. She completed her schooling at Nachiketan Public School in Ellenabad. Her family has been a significant source of support throughout her journey. Her father, Bhagawan Singh, is a farmer, and she has a brother and a sister.
Bhajan Kaur’s path to archery wasn’t typical. Growing up on a farm, shot put seemed a more natural fit for the young athlete. In fact, that’s exactly what she was practicing when her teacher, Parminder Sir, saw something special. Recognizing a lack of girls in archery at the under-14 level, he encouraged Bhajan to give it a try. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Overcoming Challenges with Family Support
Reflecting on her journey, Kaur shared with The New Indian Express, “I can’t even imagine what would have happened if my father had not installed the target at home. I don’t think I am where I am without all the sacrifices my family has made.”
Balancing Academics and Archery
Kaur has successfully balanced her school commitments with rigorous archery practice, relying heavily on her family’s unwavering support.
Family Sacrifices and Investment
To ensure she had the necessary tools to excel, Kaur’s father took out loans and invested Rs 25,000 in an archery kit.
Support from Olympic Gold Quest
Kaur’s archery career has been supported by Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ), which has played a crucial role in her development as an athlete.
Bhajan Kaur archer
Selection for the 2022 Asian Games
Kaur was selected for the Indian Archery team to compete in the recurve events at the 2022 Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China. Along with teammates Ankita Bhakat and Simranjeet Kaur, she secured a bronze medal in the Women’s team recurve event.
Triumph in the Asian Games
The Indian trio triumphed over the Vietnam team with a 6-2 victory in the bronze-medal play-off, marking a significant achievement in Kaur’s career.
Bronze Medal – Third Place: 2022 Hangzhou, Women’s team recurve
2023 World Cup Bronze: Bhajan Kaur was part of the Indian recurve team that won a bronze medal at the Hyundai Archery World Cup in Paris, France in August 2023.
2023 Youth World Championship Bronze: She also won a bronze medal at the Youth World Championships at Limerick in July 2023, defeating Su Hsin-Yu of Chinese Taipei in the U-21 women’s recurve individual section.
Other Achievements: Bhajan Kaur has consistently impressed in international competitions. In April 2023, she reached the semifinals of the Archery World Cup in Antalya, Turkey, defeating top seed Alejandra Valencia in the quarterfinals. Earlier that year, she also finished in the top-10 at the Archery World Cup Stage 3 held in Medellin, Colombia.
Bhajan Kaur’s dedication and talent have made her a bright prospect for Indian archery. With the Paris Olympics just around the corner, she will be hoping to continue her impressive form and challenge for a medal.
Kaur’s success in Antalya ensures her participation in the prestigious 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, where she aims to bring further glory to her nation.
Paris Olympics Qualification: Bhajan Kaur secured India’s first women’s individual recurve quota for the 2024 Paris Olympics by winning the gold medal at the Archery Final Olympic Qualifier in Antalya, Turkey on June 16, 2024 . She defeated top-seeded Mobina Fallah of Iran 6-2 (28-26, 29-29, 29-26, 29-29) in the final.
