Rubina Francis Shines at Paris Paralympics:
On August 31, 2024, Rubina Francis, a determined and talented para shooter from India, showcased her incredible skills at the Paris Paralympic Games. Rubina, 25, qualified for the women’s 10m air pistol (SH1) final, securing her spot in the top eight after a challenging qualification round. Despite a slow start, where she was positioned 14th after the first series of 10 shots, Rubina demonstrated resilience and precision, eventually climbing up the ranks to finish seventh in the qualification round with a score of 556.
Rubina’s journey to the Paris Paralympics has been remarkable. Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, she has consistently proven her mettle in international competitions. Earlier in 2024, she won a bronze medal at the Para Shooting World Cup held in New Delhi. However, despite her strong performance, she missed out on securing a direct Paralympic quota place at that event, a setback that she overcame by securing a bipartite (wildcard) entry for the Paris Games.
At the Paralympics, Rubina’s entry into the final round marks a significant achievement, especially considering her previous experience at the Tokyo Paralympics, where she also reached the final but finished in seventh place. Her ability to maintain composure under pressure and deliver in critical moments has made her a standout athlete in the para-shooting world.
Rubina’s performance in Paris adds to India’s growing presence in para-sports, especially in shooting events. Her achievement comes on the heels of other notable performances by Indian athletes at the Paralympics, including Avani Lekhara, who made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win two Paralympic gold medals in shooting, and Manish Narwal, who won a silver medal in the men’s 10m air pistol (SH1) final.
Rubina’s success is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and the support she has received from her coaches and the sports community. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly those facing physical challenges, showing that with determination and perseverance, it is possible to achieve great things on the world stage.
As Rubina prepares for the final round of the 10m air pistol event, all eyes will be on her as she aims to secure a medal for India. Regardless of the outcome, her journey to this point has already solidified her place as one of India’s top para shooters, and she continues to be a role model for many.
Rubina Francis’s story is one of grit and passion, and her achievements in 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as a significant chapter in India’s para-sport history. The nation eagerly awaits her performance in the final, hopeful that she will add another accolade to her growing list of accomplishments.