Para-archer Sheetal Devi has made history once again by qualifying for India’s able-bodied junior archery team for the upcoming Asia Cup Stage 3, set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from December 10 to 15, 2025. This achievement marks a significant breakthrough, as Sheetal becomes the first Indian para-athlete to secure a spot in an able-bodied international competition.
Born without arms due to a rare congenital condition called phocomelia, 18-year-old Sheetal uses her feet and shoulders to draw and release the bowstring, a technique she has refined through unwavering dedication and intense training. Her selection was earned at the national trials held at the Sports Authority of India’s National Centre of Excellence in Sonipat, where she competed alongside more than 60 able-bodied archers. Sheetal scored a total of 703 points in the qualification rounds, tying with the top qualifier Tejal Salve. In the final rankings, she secured third place with 11.75 points, narrowly surpassing other competitors.
Sheetal’s journey to this historic milestone has been remarkable. Earlier in 2025, she became the first female armless archer to win the Para World Archery Championship, defeating notable champions along the way. She also won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics in the mixed team compound event, making her one of India’s youngest Paralympic medallists.
Sharing her thoughts on social media, Sheetal reflected, “When I started competing, I had a small dream—to one day compete alongside the able-bodied. I didn’t make it at first, but I kept going, learning from every setback. Today, that dream is one step closer.” Inspired by Turkey’s para-archer Oznur Cure Girdi, who also competes in able-bodied events, Sheetal continues to challenge perceptions and set new standards for athletes with disabilities.
Trained at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra, she exemplifies resilience and determination. Her selection to the able-bodied team is not only a personal victory but also a landmark moment for Indian archery, symbolizing inclusivity and breaking barriers in sports.
