India completes shooting hattrick with Swapnil bronze in Olympics. Swapnil Kusale Secures Historic Bronze, Completing India's Shooting Medal Hat-trick at Paris 2024.
Swapnil Kusale etched his name in history on Thursday, securing India's third bronze medal at the Paris Olympics 2024. He finished third in the men's 50m rifle 3 position final, joining fellow shooters Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh to complete a remarkable medal hat-trick for the nation. This feat marks the first time India has achieved three shooting medals in a single Olympic Games, solidifying its dominance in the sport.
The 28-year-old, who became India's first shooter to qualify for the men's 50m rifle 3 position final just a day prior, achieved a historic victory at his maiden Olympic appearance. His journey to Paris was a testament to his perseverance, having secured his spot after the final Olympic trials held at the MP State Shooting Academy Ranges in Bhopal only three months ago.
Swapnil's path to glory wasn't without its challenges. The pressure of the big stage and the heartbreak of finishing fourth at both the 2023 Shooting World Championships and the Asian Games weighed heavily on his mind. He faced a similar predicament in the Paris Olympics final, finding himself in the middle of the pack after the kneeling and prone events. However, a determined push in the standing position saw Swapnil rise through the ranks, ultimately silencing the ghosts of his past failures and securing a well-deserved podium finish.
This bronze medal victory is not only a testament to Swapnil's talent but also his resilience and unwavering spirit. It is a story of overcoming adversity and achieving success on the biggest sporting stage in the world.