In the world of archery, a rising star has emerged, captivating the hearts of people both nationally and internationally. Sheetal Devi, a remarkable Indian para-athlete, has defied all odds to make her mark in the sport. Born in the remote village of Loi Dhar in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir in 2007, her journey from obscurity to greatness is nothing short of inspirational.
In 2022, Sheetal's exceptional talent caught the eye of Coach Kuldeep Vedwan, who invited her to join the Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Archery Academy in Katra. Here, Sheetal embarked on a journey of rigorous training, learning to shoot the bow with her feet and chest, a unique technique born out of necessity.
In just six months of intensive training, Sheetal not only mastered this distinctive method but also began participating in competitions. Her extraordinary skills did not go unnoticed, as the army recognized her talent, sponsoring her education, arranging vital medical aid, and providing prosthetic limbs to aid her journey.
Sheetal's incredible journey as an athlete began in November 2022 when she competed against able-bodied athletes in the Junior National Archery Championship. Subsequently, she delivered remarkable performances in the Khelo India Nationals and Women's Khelo India Games.
May 2023 marked Sheetal's international debut at a para tournament in the Czech Republic, where she clinched two silver medals and a bronze. Her achievements continued to soar as she participated in the Para Archery Championship 2023, securing the fourth position in the compound women's qualifying round and making her way to the world finals. Sheetal made history as the first female armless archer to achieve such a remarkable feat.
Throughout her incredible journey, Sheetal has had unwavering support from her family, including her father, a farmer, her mother, a goatherd, and her younger sister, Shivani. Her dedication and hard work have paid off, making her an inspiration to countless individuals worldwide.
Sheetal Devi's journey from a remote village in Jammu and Kashmir to becoming a trailblazing para-athlete in archery is a story of courage, perseverance, and triumph. Her accomplishments are not only remarkable but also deeply inspiring, and she continues to leave an indelible mark in the world of sports.
Medals & Achievements of Sheetal Devi:
1. Silver in Khelo India Nationals
2. Bronze in Women's Khelo India Games
3. Two Silver medals and a bronze medal at a Para Tournament in the Czech Republic
4. First position at the Para Asian Games trials
Facts about Sheetal Devi:
1. Born without hands.
2. Sheetal emulates renowned archer Matt Stutzman by gripping her bow with the assistance of her foot.
3. As of July 2023, Sheetal held the world rank 18 in Compound Women Open.
4. Her Qualification best score in Compound Women was 682 until July 2023.
5. Sheetal's journey in archery was inspired by Preethi Rai, the founder of 'Being You' NGO in Bengaluru.
6. Sheetal was the only armless archer who competed at the World Para Championships in 2023.
7. Sheetal's coaches introduced her to archery by showing her videos of Matt Stutzman, a renowned armless archer from the USA, and modified her bow with his suggestions.
8. Sheetal excelled with 689 points in her achievements at the Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Archery Academy.
