Who is Manu Bhaker? Get To Know Shooting Sensation Represented India in the Paris 2024 Olympics

Indian shooting sensation Manu Bhakar made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics, becoming the first Indian female shooter to win two medals at a single Olympic Games. Her remarkable achievement showcased her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.

Bhakar’s first medal came in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol event. Facing stiff competition from some of the world’s best shooters, she displayed nerves of steel and precision, securing a bronze medal with a commendable score.

Her second medal came in the Mixed 10m Air Pistol Team event, where she partnered with her compatriot, Sarabjot. The duo showcased excellent teamwork and shooting skills, ultimately claiming a bronze medal.

Bhakar’s double medal haul at the Paris Olympics is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in her abilities.

Her achievements have not only brought immense pride to India but have also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams in the sport of shooting.

Manu Bhaker Background

Manu Bhaker was born on February 18, 2002, in Goria, a small village in the Jhajjar district of Haryana, India. Growing up in a region where traditional sports like wrestling and cricket often overshadow other disciplines, Bhaker’s journey into shooting was both unconventional and inspiring.

From a young age, Bhaker showed an inclination towards sports, but it was her father, who recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue shooting. Her early exposure to the sport came through local competitions and training camps, where her natural talent began to shine.

Manu Bhaker Age

As of 2024, Manu Bhaker is 22 years old. Despite her relatively young age, she has already made a significant impact on the world stage, demonstrating that age is no barrier to achieving greatness in sports.

Her career trajectory has been remarkable, marked by numerous accolades and records, which showcase her dedication and skill.

Family

Manu Bhaker hails from a supportive and encouraging family that has played a crucial role in her rise to prominence. Her father, Ram Kishan Bhaker, has been a pivotal figure in her career.

A former sportsman himself, Ram Kishan Bhaker’s understanding of the dedication required in sports helped guide Manu’s early development and training.

Her mother, Smt. Chandrawati Bhaker, has also been an integral part of her support system, providing emotional backing and stability. Manu’s family has always been her pillar of strength, and their unwavering support has been instrumental in her success.

Bhaker has a younger brother, who, although not as prominently involved in sports, shares a close bond with her. The family’s encouragement and involvement have been essential in helping Manu focus on her training and competitions.

Career Highlights

Manu Bhaker’s career in shooting sports has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her journey from local competitions to international acclaim reflects her exceptional talent and hard work.

Here are some of the key highlights of her career:

1. Early Achievements: Manu Bhaker’s rise to fame began with her impressive performances in national and international shooting competitions. Her first major success came at the 2017 National Shooting Championship, where she clinched several medals, signaling her arrival on the shooting scene.
2. Commonwealth Games Success: In 2018, Bhaker competed in the Commonwealth Games held in Gold Coast, Australia. She made headlines by winning two gold medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and 25m pistol events. Her performance at the Games was a significant milestone, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure.
3. ISSF World Cup Performances: Manu Bhaker’s success continued at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup events. In 2018, she secured a gold medal in the 10m air pistol event at the ISSF World Cup held in Guadalajara, Mexico. This victory was a testament to her skill and consistency on the global stage.
4. Asian Games: At the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, Bhaker continued her stellar performances by winning gold medals in the 10m air pistol and 25m pistol events. Her achievements at the Asian Games further cemented her status as one of the top shooters in the world.
5. Olympic Ambitions: Manu Bhaker made her Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Although she did not win a medal, her participation in the Olympics was a significant achievement and a stepping stone towards her future goals. Her performance in Tokyo showcased her potential and provided valuable experience for future competitions.
6. Records and Accolades: Throughout her career, Bhaker has set several records and received numerous accolades for her achievements. She has been awarded the prestigious Arjuna Award, one of India’s highest sports honors, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to shooting sports.

Manu Bhaker’s Preparation

Manu Bhaker’s success can be attributed to her rigorous training regimen and meticulous preparation. She trains under the guidance of experienced coaches and spends numerous hours honing her skills at shooting ranges.

Her training involves a combination of physical conditioning, mental preparation, and technical practice, all of which contribute to her excellence in the sport.

Bhaker’s commitment to her training is evident in her consistent performances and achievements. She often participates in international training camps and workshops to stay updated with the latest techniques and advancements in shooting sports.

Challenges

Like any top athlete, Manu Bhaker has faced challenges and setbacks throughout her career. The pressure of competing at the highest level, coupled with the physical and mental demands of the sport, has tested her resilience.

However, her ability to overcome obstacles and stay focused on her goals has been a defining feature of her career.

The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, posed significant challenges for athletes worldwide, including Bhaker. The postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the disruption of training schedules were obstacles that required adaptability and perseverance.

Bhaker’s ability to navigate these challenges and continue her preparations for future competitions speaks volumes about her dedication and resilience.

Manu Bhaker an Inspiration

Manu Bhaker’s impact extends beyond her achievements in shooting sports. As one of India’s top young athletes, she has become an inspiration for aspiring shooters and sports enthusiasts. Her success has brought attention to the sport of shooting in India and has encouraged young talents to pursue their dreams.

Bhaker’s achievements also highlight the growing prominence of shooting sports in India, a country traditionally known for cricket and other sports.

Her performances on the international stage have elevated the profile of shooting sports and have contributed to the development of the sport in the country.

Future Prospects

The future looks bright for Manu Bhaker as she continues to pursue excellence in shooting sports. With her talent, dedication, and experience, she is well-positioned to achieve further success in upcoming competitions.

Bhaker’s goals include competing in future Olympic Games, World Championships, and other major international events, where she aims to build on her previous successes and achieve new milestones.

Her journey thus far has been marked by remarkable achievements and unwavering determination. As she continues to train and compete, Manu Bhaker’s future in shooting sports is poised to be even more impressive, and she remains a key figure to watch in the world of athletics.