Rakesh Kumar: Inspiring journey of India’s Paralympic archery
Indian Paralympic archer Rakesh Kumar has made a name for himself in para archery all over the world. It is indeed an interesting journey that tells us how he went from a life-changing accident to becoming the best compound archer in India among the differently-abled. Let us now take a look at the life of this man who against all odds became an Indian representative at the international level.
Early life and childhood
He was born on November 22, 1985 in Behbalpur, Hisar, Haryana, India. Rakesh Kumar’s journey to a Paralympic archery champion is a testament to human resilience. Growing up in Hissar, Haryana, young Rakesh was known for his adventurous spirit and love for outdoor activities.
Family and Education
Rakesh Kumar comes from a supportive family in Hisar, HaryanaFirst, he completed his early education at a local gurukulwhere he developed an interest in gurukul athleticsThis early exposure to physical activities would later prove crucial to his journey as a para-athlete.
How did Rakesh get injured and paralyzed?
In 2007, at the age of 22, Rakesh Kumar’s life changed drastically when he fell from a treeresulting in paralysis of the lower bodyThe accident left him in a wheelchair, but Rakesh Kumar overcomes this setback with extraordinary determination.
During his rehabilitation, Rakesh was introduced to para archeryThe sport quickly caught his interest and offered a new way to channel his energy. With the support of the Archery Association of India and the Sports Authority of IndiaRakesh started his journey in Paralympic archery.
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Professional Career of Archer Rakesh Kumar:
Rakesh Kumar’s archery career took off quickly once he committed himself to the sport. While his natural talent for compound archery, combined with rigorous training, soon made him a formidable competitor in para archery competitions.
Important milestones early in his career include:
- 2010: Started formal training in para-archery in Rohtak
- 2013: First National Competition Organized by Archery Association of India
- 2015: International debut at the Asian Para Archery Championships
Rise to international success
When Mr. Rakesh Kumar stormed through the ranks in the world of para-archery, his precision in open compound archery quickly established him as one of India’s top para archersSome of his notable international performances are as follows:
- 2018: Gold medal at the Para-Asian Games in Jakarta
- 2019: Bronze medal at the World Archery Championships in the Netherlands
- 2021: Gold medal at the Fazza Para Archery World Ranking Tournament in Dubai
Paralympic trip
The highlight of Rakesh Kumar’s career came with his qualification and participation in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. In Tokyo, Rakesh showed his skills on the biggest stage of para sports:
- Qualified for the individual compound open event for men
- Reached the quarter finals and finished 5th overall
- Set a Paralympic record in the ranking round with a score of 699 out of a possible 720
Technology and equipment
Rakesh competes in the compound bow category, which requires immense upper body strength and precision. And his technique is characterized by the following:
- Exceptional stability and balance, crucial for wheelchair archers
- Aim and release accurately, often hitting the target consistently
- Mental strength to perform under pressure
In terms of equipment, Rakesh uses a state-of-the-art compound bow, specially adapted to his specific needs as a para-archer. World Archery Federation recognizes him as one of the best compound archers in the para-archery category.
Rakesh’s Training Regime:
Rakesh’s success is built on a foundation of rigorous training and unwavering dedication. His typical workout routine includes:
- Daily archery training, often lasting 6-8 hours
- Strength and conditioning exercises targeting the upper body and core
- Mental preparation and visualization techniques
- Regular participation in national camps organised by Archery Association of India at various locations including Gandhinagar, Rajasthan and Odisha
Awards and achievements
During his career, Rakesh Kumar has collected an impressive array of accolades:
- Gold medal at the 2018 Para-Asian Games
- Bronze medal at the 2019 World Para Archery Championships
- Gold Medal at the Fazza Para Archery World Ranking Tournament 2021
- Paralympic record holder in the ranking round (Tokyo 2020)
- Arjuna Award Winner (2022) for Outstanding Sports Performance
Personal life and interests of Rakesh Kumar
Outside of the archery range, Rakesh is known for his humble nature and dedication to promoting para sports. He regularly visits rehabilitation centers And sports academies in places like Solapur, Maharashtra and Kolhapur, Maharashtra to share his experiences and inspire the next generation para-athletes.
In his spare time Rakesh enjoys:
- Mentoring young archers.
- Advocating for accessibility and rights of people with disabilities.
- I follow other sports, especially badminton and javelin throwing.
Legacy and Future Aspirations
Rakesh Kumar’s compelling story of an accident that changed his life as a Paralympic archery champion is a testament to resilience and determination. Today, Rakesh not only craves personal glory, but also:
- To encourage more people to take up para-archery in India.
- To pass on his expertise to the young Indian para-athletes.
- To improve the existing infrastructure for Paralympic sports in India.
- To compete for the gold medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.
Through his achievements and dedication, Rakesh Kumar is not only winning medals; he is also changing perceptions and opening doors for countless others to follow in his footsteps.
If IndusInd Bankone of his sponsors notes: “The Story of Rakesh Kumar is one of perseverance, determination and the will to succeed against all odds.” His journey continues to inspire and push the boundaries of what is possible in para sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rakesh Kumar and what is his background in para-archery?
Rakesh Kumar is one of the most famous paralympic archers in India who has made the country shine in international para archery events. He took up archery after an unfortunate incident where he suffered a spinal cord injury which left him quadriplegic and is one of the best para archers in the world.
What are some of Rakesh Kumar’s major achievements in para-archery?
Kumar has a rich history as a wheelchair basketball player and over the years he has achieved several feats including winning medals at the Asian Para Games and representing India at the Paralympic Games. He has a strong social presence as a para-archer and has always been one of the best para-archers in the world and this has made him admirable by many.
How did Rakesh Kumar overcome his challenges to become a successful para-archer?
With tough physical and emotional experiences after his accident, Rakesh Kumar proves that our determination, hard work and support from our families and coaches can make incredible results possible. He focused on this activity, archery, and got something to do in life and an area where he could perform.
What equipment does Rakesh Kumar use during para-archery competitions?
Rakesh Kumar has adapted and uses para-archery equipment including a compound bow which is widely used by para-archery competitors. His sports equipment which he uses in the competitions is adapted to his disability and his handicap to enhance his excellence in competitions.
