Ahmedabad, September 6 (Daily Kiran) : The World Archery Para Series 2026 is currently taking place in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, from September 5 to 9. This international event has attracted 108 athletes from 19 countries. Harvinder Singh, who won a gold medal at the Paris Paralympics, expressed excitement about competing in a venue that meets Olympic standards. He emphasized the significance of performing before Indian fans on home soil.
In an interview, Harvinder noted, “This is the first time a para-archery competition is being held in India. We are thrilled, and the arrangements made by the Indian Archery Federation deserve commendation. It’s a unique opportunity for us to represent India on our home ground and perform in front of our supporters. I hope we receive full support from the audience.”
He also highlighted Ahmedabad’s potential to become a sports hub in the coming years, especially as the city prepares to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. “I am confident that more competitions will take place here and in other locations. Hosting such events will undoubtedly improve our infrastructure,” he added.
Harvinder praised the government’s support for athletes, particularly since the introduction of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme. “We are receiving significant encouragement and assistance from the government, especially in recent years. Athletes are being provided with pocket allowances and equipment, which are managed effectively. Facilities at Sports Authority of India (SAI) centers have improved, with a new center being developed in Gandhinagar,” he said.
Reflecting on the progress of para-archery in India, Harvinder remarked that since the team’s first representation in 2017, there has rarely been a year without medals. “Now, we are even winning in double digits. If we continue to receive this level of support, I believe we can secure even more medals for our country,” he noted.
He commended the venue and arrangements, mentioning that Amit Shah had highlighted the importance of hosting the tournament in his parliamentary constituency. “I have participated in the Paralympics twice, and I can assure you that the venue here is on par with what you would find at the Tokyo or Paris Olympics. I congratulate the organizers for their efforts,” he stated.
Indian archer Shyam Sundar Swami shared his impressions of the World Ranking Series in Ahmedabad, saying, “When I arrived, I felt like I was at the Asian Games. The atmosphere and the field are excellent, reminding me of the 2024 Paris Olympics and the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.”
Leave a Comment