By Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh, despite their contrasting personalities and hobbies, share a unique bond and mutual support under pressure. Manu enjoys horse riding, plays the violin, and juggles balls, while Sarabjot loves fast cars, listens to Punjabi pop, and lifts weights. Yet, together, these 22-year-olds from Haryana form a formidable team capable of defeating the world’s best on the shooting range at paris olympics.
On Tuesday, at the shooting ranges of Chateauroux, they faced South Koreans Lee Wonho and Oh Ye Jin, who had recently excelled in the 10m air pistol individual categories. However, the Indian duo surpassed expectations, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and skill. Standing casually on the shooting line with one hand in their pockets, they masked their anxiety and nerves with a composed exterior. Their ability to stay calm and collected was crucial as they approached the finish line with each shot.
Bhaker & Singh Shine at Paris Olympics
In the past, they had faltered at crucial moments, but this time, they delivered their best shots under immense pressure, recovering from a poor start. They secured India’s second medal of the Paris Olympics, another bronze, on Tuesday. For Manu, it was her second bronze, making her the first athlete in independent India to win two medals at the same Olympics. For Sarabjot, who had narrowly missed the individual final, this was a significant comeback, highlighting his resilience and determination.
Sarabjot had been deeply committed to his Olympic dream since he started shooting at 14. His surroundings were filled with Olympic symbols, including his phone wallpaper and gaming console, which kept him focused on his goal. “I placed everything strategically. The first thing I saw every morning was an Olympic medal. It built my confidence and reminded me of my goal,” he said. These visual reminders played a crucial role in maintaining his motivation and drive.
During the final series, Manu didn’t shoot her best score, but Sarabjot compensated for her, ensuring their victory with a 16-10 playoff win. Their teamwork was evident as they crossed the finish line with ease. Upon returning to India, Sarabjot plans to visit the racing track in Greater Noida, where he frequently rents fast cars. Now, he hopes to own one that accelerates from 0 to 100 in just a few seconds, fulfilling another of his dreams.
