India’s archery contingent entered the Paris Paralympics with high hopes, and those hopes were quickly realized when Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar secured a bronze medal in the mixed team compound open event. But it was Harvinder Singh’s dominant gold medal performance in the men’s individual recurve open category that truly captured the nation’s attention.
Three years after winning India’s first-ever Paralympic archery medal in Tokyo, the 33-year-old Singh stood atop the podium in Paris, defeating Poland’s Lukasz Ciszek with a resounding 6-0 victory. His journey, however, was far from conventional. Harvinder, hailing from a middle-class farming family in Haryana, suffered from dengue at the tender age of one-and-a-half, and an ill-advised injection administered by a local doctor left him with a permanently impaired left leg.
In an exclusive chat with Sportstar, Harvinder, who is also pursuing a PhD in Economics, reflects on his Paralympic journey, emphasizing the dedication and mental resilience that propelled him to the pinnacle of his sport. He talks about the emotional support he derives from his family, the pressures he faces as an athlete, and the strategies he implements to maintain his focus and overcome challenges.
When asked about his first conversation with his family after the historic gold medal, Harvinder reveals a heartwarming story of his father’s overwhelming pride and the absence he feels of his late mother, whose memory continues to inspire him. He also talks about how his marriage and the arrival of his son have added another layer of purpose and motivation to his life, creating a loving support system that fuels his dedication to the sport.
His performance in Paris was a testament to his unwavering focus. While his Tokyo matches were often close, with three going to shoot-offs, he consciously avoided this pressure-filled scenario in Paris, aiming to finish matches decisively. He shares his insights into the mental game, emphasizing the importance of consistency, staying calm under pressure, and focusing on executing every shot to perfection.
Harvinder’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the unwavering spirit of an athlete who has overcome significant adversity. His commitment to his sport, his family’s unwavering support, and his own unwavering belief in himself have propelled him to the top of the world. He stands as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, showcasing that with hard work, determination, and a strong support system, anything is possible.
