New Delhi: In a landmark achievement for Indian sports, para-archer Sheetal Devi has been selected to represent India in the Asia Cup 2025 Stage-3 archery tournament, scheduled to be held later this year in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This marks the first time in Indian sporting history that a para-athlete has been chosen to compete alongside able-bodied athletes in an international-level competition.
Outstanding Performance in Selection Trials
Sheetal earned her spot on the national team after a stellar performance in the Junior Selection Trials held from November 3 to 6 at the SAI National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) in Sonipat. Competing against some of the country’s top young archers, she secured an impressive third-place finish, thereby qualifying for the prestigious continental event.
In the qualifying round, Sheetal recorded an outstanding aggregate score of 703, matching the performance of top seed Tejal Rajendra Salve, and finishing just behind Tejal and Vaidehi Hirachandra Jadhav, who claimed the first and second positions, respectively.
A Dream Realised
Sharing her joy on social media, Sheetal expressed gratitude and pride at achieving a long-cherished dream.
“When I began competing, I had a small dream — to one day compete alongside able-bodied athletes. Initially, I couldn’t achieve it, but I kept learning from every setback. Today, that dream has come one step closer. I secured third place in the Junior Asia Cup trials and will now represent India in the sub-junior Asia Cup — in the able-bodied category,” she wrote.
An Inspiration Beyond Limits
Born without arms, Sheetal Devi has captivated global audiences with her extraordinary ability to shoot arrows using her feet. Her remarkable journey reached new heights at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where she won India’s first-ever medal in the Mixed Team Compound event. With that victory, she became the first woman in the world to win a medal in archery without arms, and only the second athlete overall after American triple Paralympic gold medallist Matt Stutzman.
Sheetal draws inspiration from Ozgur Kuru Girdi, the Turkish Paralympic champion who has also competed successfully in able-bodied categories.
Since her debut season in 2023, where she clinched a silver medal at the World Archery Para Championships, Sheetal has been a symbol of resilience, determination, and excellence. Her journey continues to inspire millions worldwide, redefining the boundaries of human potential in sport.
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