Avani Lekhara, Indian shooter and gold medallist at the Tokyo Paralympics Games 2020 has added another feather in her cap. She was awarded the “Best Female Debut” honour at the 2021 Paralympics Award.
This was for her record-shattering gold medal at the Tokyo games. With a gold medal in her bag in the women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 event Avani managed to break the Paralympics games record while equalling the world record.
Achievements of Avani Lekhara
Apart from this, she won a bronze medal in the 50m Rifle Three Positions Standing SH1 event.
For her achievement, Avani Lekhara was bestowed the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award this year.
After suffering a major car accident at a tender age of 11, Avani turned to shooting after seeing former Olympic Gold medalist Abhinav Bhindra.
Interacting with the press after the award, Avani said that winning the award was an honour for her, that she had always focused on giving her best shot and bringing back medals for her country. She also spoke of the importance of hardwork, dedication and patience.
Reminiscing her performance at the Tokyo games, Avani added that success is amazing but comes with a lot of responsibility.