Kolkata, Sheetal Devi, the first woman armless archer to be crowned world champion, has found company on the podium in Payal Nag, a quadruple amputee from Odisha. Payal stunned the reigning world No. 1 to win gold at the World Archery Para Series in Bangkok, defeating Sheetal 139-136 in her second international appearance.
Sheetal, who had often felt 'alone' on the podium, believes the 'healthy competition' will strengthen India's medal prospects heading into the Asian Games and the Los Angeles Paralympics. 'Wins and losses are part of the game,' she said. 'I shot poorly, but she did better. Overall, it was a proud moment as both medals came to India.'
Payal's journey has been extraordinary. She was critically injured in an electric shock in 2015, leading to the amputation of all four limbs. Coach Kuldeep Vedwan spotted her through a photograph on social media in 2023 and designed customised equipment for her to train alongside Sheetal.
Sheetal and her coach Gaurav Sharma believe the competition will help them focus more on the Asian Games. 'More than Sheetal, we are happier for Payal. She deserved it fully, having gone through a lot in her early days.'
