Paralympic Archer Sheetal Devi Makes History on Indian National Team
Eighteen-year-old Sheetal Devi, born without arms, has become the first Indian para archer to qualify for the able-bodied national team, a landmark achievement that underscores the growing inclusivity within Indian sports.
Devi secured her spot after finishing third among 60 archers in the compound women’s trials held last week, earning a place on the team for next month’s Asia Cup in Jeddah. Her journey to this point has been marked by ingenuity and adaptation, as she developed a unique technique to shoot arrows using her toes. Coach Kuldeep Vedwan, inspired by American armless archer Matt Stutzman, designed a custom release aid for Devi, initially using a chest strap and jaw activation, but later modified due to discomfort. “She asked me, ‘Even if I lift the bow with my legs, how will I let the arrow fly?’” Vedwan recalled.
The process wasn’t without challenges; Devi initially experienced pain from the pressure of the release aid on her chin. Physiotherapist Ayushi Tomer addressed this by incorporating exercises using clay to improve grip stability and control, noting, “The chin is not used to that kind of load… so, whenever she shot, she would get hurt.” Beyond technique, Devi’s strength training regimen, including lifting dumbbells with her feet, has been crucial to her success. As Anukool Bharadwaj, head of the Paralympic program at OGQ, explained, “a lot of what she does comes from her natural strength,” but has been significantly enhanced through dedicated training. You can learn more about World Archery and its initiatives to promote inclusivity in the sport.
Devi’s ability to overcome obstacles extends beyond the archery range; she performs daily tasks like eating and writing with her toes and reportedly once climbed trees with ease. This remarkable resilience and determination have captivated many, and her success is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes with disabilities. Officials stated that Sheetal Devi will continue intensive training in preparation for the Asia Cup, with a focus on refining her technique and maintaining peak physical condition.
