Manu Bhaker, born on February 18, 2002, in Goria village, Jhajjar district, Haryana, is an Indian sport shooter who has made significant strides in international shooting competitions. With a background in various sports, including martial arts, boxing, and tennis, Bhaker’s journey into shooting began at 14, following her inspiration from the 2016 Rio Olympics. Her rapid ascent in the sport has made her a prominent figure in Indian athletics, culminating in her recent achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Early Life and Introduction to Shooting
Manu Bhaker was raised in a family that valued education and sports. Her father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, a chief engineer in the Merchant Navy, played a pivotal role in supporting her athletic endeavors. Before discovering her passion for shooting, Bhaker excelled in various sports, including Huyen langlon, a Manipuri martial art, where she won national medals. Her decision to pursue shooting was somewhat impulsive; after watching the Rio Olympics, she requested her father to buy her a sport shooting pistol, which he did, investing approximately ₹1,50,000 into her new passion. This impulsive decision and the subsequent investment from her father show her resilience and determination to excel in her chosen field.
Within a week of starting, she showcased her talent at the 2017 National Shooting Championships, where she defeated seasoned Olympian Heena Sidhu, setting a new record with a score of 242.3 in the 10m Air Pistol final. This victory marked the beginning of her illustrious career in shooting.
Rise to Prominence
Bhaker’s career took off rapidly after her breakthrough at the national level. In 2017, she won a silver medal at the Asian Junior Championships, further establishing her as a formidable competitor. The following year, she made headlines by winning gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia, at just 16 years old. Her performance in the women’s 10m air pistol event was remarkable; she set a new Commonwealth Games record with a score of 240.9.
In the same year, Bhaker also participated in the 2018 ISSF World Cup in Guadalajara, Mexico, where she secured gold in the Women’s 10-meter air pistol event, defeating two-time champion Alejandra Zavala. She continued her winning streak by claiming another gold medal in the mixed-team event alongside Om Prakash Mitharval.
Major Achievements
2018 Youth Olympic Games
Bhaker’s success continued at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games, where she became the first Indian shooter and female athlete from India to win a gold medal. She topped the points table in the women’s 10m air pistol event, further solidifying her status as a rising star.
Asian Games and World Championships
Despite a strong showing at the 2018 Asian Games, where she set a qualification record 593 in the 25m Air Pistol event, she finished sixth in the finals. However, her consistency and dedication paid off as she competed at high levels, participating in various international competitions and earning accolades.
Recent Achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Bhaker’s most recent accomplishments came at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where she made history by becoming the first female shooter from India to win a medal at the Olympics. She secured two bronze medals: one in the women’s 10m air pistol event and another in the mixed team event alongside Sarabjot Singh. This achievement made her the first Indian woman to win two medals at the same Olympic Games and the first athlete from independent India to achieve this feat since the 1900 Paris Olympics.
Her performance in the individual event was marked by precision and composure, scoring 221.7 points. In the mixed team event, Bhaker and Singh defeated South Korea’s duo, showcasing their teamwork and skill under pressure. Bhaker’s ability to focus and deliver under challenging circumstances has been a career hallmark.
Philosophy and Mindset
In interviews following her Olympic success, Bhaker emphasized the importance of mental strength and focus. She drew inspiration from the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, stating that her mindset during the competition was centered on performing her best without being overly concerned about the outcome. This philosophical approach has helped her navigate the pressures of high-stakes competitions.
Future Prospects
Manu Bhaker continues to train and compete, with aspirations for further success in upcoming events. Her achievements have brought her personal accolades and inspired a new generation of athletes in India. With her dedication, skill, and mental fortitude, Bhaker is poised to remain a significant figure in shooting sports. Her future prospects are bright, and the shooting community and sports enthusiasts eagerly await her next chapter, filled with hope and anticipation for more remarkable achievements.
Conclusion
Manu Bhaker’s journey from a young girl in Haryana to an Olympic medalist is a testament to her hard work, determination, and talent. Her inspiring story showcases how passion and support can lead to remarkable achievements. As she continues to break barriers and set new records, Bhaker is not only a role model for aspiring shooters but also a symbol of India’s growing prowess in sports. Her impact on Indian sports is significant, and her achievements have brought her personal accolades and inspired a new generation of athletes in India. With her eyes set on future competitions, the shooting community and sports enthusiasts eagerly await her next chapter.
