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Indian shooting star Manu Bhaker has emerged as a beacon of hope for the nation at the ongoing Olympic Games, securing a spot in the 10m women's air pistol final. Her remarkable consistency and determination have been a much-needed positive amidst an otherwise underwhelming performance by her compatriots.Bhaker's journey to the final has been marked by resilience and unwavering focus. After a disappointing debut at the Tokyo Games three years ago, she has been determined to make amends and add an Olympic medal to her impressive resume. Her qualification score of 580, securing third place, is a testament to her hard work and dedication.In contrast, the men's 10m air pistol event proved to be a disappointment for Indian shooters. Sarabjot Singh and Arjun Singh Cheema displayed flashes of brilliance but ultimately failed to advance to the final. Singh finished ninth with a score of 577, while Cheema ended in 18th place with a score of 574.Bhaker's achievement is particularly significant as she becomes the first Indian female shooter to qualify for an individual Olympic final in the last 20 years. Suma Shirur was the last Indian shooter to reach this feat, when she qualified for the 10m Air Rifle final in Athens 2004.Bhaker's performance has been a welcome respite for Indian shooting, which has faced criticism for its underwhelming performance in recent years. Her determination and resilience serve as an inspiration to aspiring shooters and a reminder that even in the face of setbacks, success can be achieved through hard work and perseverance.

Nikhat Zareen, India's two-time world boxing champion, is eagerly anticipating her Olympic debut in Paris. Despite being a newcomer to the Olympic stage, Zareen is determined to make a mark and bring home a medal.Zareen's journey to the Olympics has been marked by unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence. From her humble beginnings in athletics to her rise as a boxing sensation, she has overcome countless obstacles to reach the pinnacle of her sport.The pressure of representing India at the Olympics is immense, but Zareen embraces it as a source of motivation. She draws inspiration from the Olympic rings, which she sees as a symbol of her ultimate goal: an Olympic gold medal.Zareen acknowledges the unpredictability of boxing and the importance of luck in the draw. However, she believes that if a medal is destined for her, no one can take it away. She is confident in her abilities and has put in the necessary hard work to ensure that she is ready for the challenge.To prepare for the Olympics, Zareen has undergone rigorous training sessions that have pushed her physical and mental limits. She has endured grueling conditioning sessions and intense sparring matches, all in the pursuit of perfection.Zareen understands the importance of staying focused and avoiding distractions. She limits her social media usage and minimizes contact with her family to maintain her concentration. She knows that an Olympic medal has the power to transform lives and is determined to make the most of this opportunity.Despite her lack of Olympic experience, Zareen is confident in her abilities and the support of her team. She is eager to showcase her skills on the world stage and make India proud.

The modern Olympic Games have come a long way in terms of gender equality, with Paris 2024 setting a new benchmark as the most gender-equal Games ever. The journey to this milestone has been a gradual one, marked by significant milestones and the unwavering efforts of women athletes and advocates.When the Games were revived in 1896, women's participation was non-existent. It was not until the 1900 Paris Games that 22 women were reluctantly allowed to compete, representing a mere 2.2% of the total athletes. Paris again took the lead in 1924, with over 100 women participating, a significant increase from previous editions.The road to equality was not without its challenges. Athletics, one of the most popular disciplines, only permitted women to participate in 1928. The women's marathon event was not added until 1984. Other sports, such as swimming, fencing, and gymnastics, gradually welcomed women athletes from 1912, 1924, and 1928 respectively.The post-World War II era saw a steady increase in women's participation, reaching 34% in the 1996 Atlanta Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), in collaboration with International Federations and National Olympic Committees, has played a crucial role in promoting gender equality in sports.Paris 2024 has not only achieved numerical equality but has also embraced its spirit. The Games will feature the mixed team race walking event and schedule the women's marathon as the final event, a symbolic gesture that highlights the progress made in women's sports.The journey to gender equality in the Olympics has been a testament to the determination and resilience of women athletes. From the pioneering women who broke barriers in the early 20th century to the current generation of Olympians, their contributions have paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape.

The Olympic Village: A Crucible of Dreams and CamaraderieThe Olympic Village, a bustling hub of athletes from around the globe, is a microcosm of the Games themselves. It's a place where dreams are forged, friendships are made, and the spirit of sportsmanship reigns supreme.For Saina Nehwal, the 2008 Beijing Games were a transformative experience. Despite her heartbreaking quarterfinal loss, she witnessed the unwavering determination of her roommate, Neha Aggarwal. Aggarwal's unwavering focus and discipline left an indelible mark on Nehwal, inspiring her to strive for greatness.The Olympic Village is a melting pot of cultures and experiences. Rafa Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz have shared smiles with Indian athletes in Paris, while Jamie Staff once found himself sharing a laundry room with Nadal. The camaraderie extends beyond the dining hall, where athletes from different countries connect over shared experiences and a common goal.For Nisha Millet, the 2000 Sydney Games were a whirlwind of excitement. She captured a precious moment with Dawn Frasier, the legendary swimmer, but her camera met an untimely demise. Yet, the memories of cheering for Mohammad Ali and chasing Sergey Bubka for a picture remain etched in her mind.Anjali Bhagwat and Abhinav Bindra, both making their Olympic debuts in Sydney, initially felt lost in the sprawling Village. But a chance encounter with Monica Seles at the dining hall broke the ice. Bhagwat went on to become the first Indian shooter to reach an Olympic final, while Bindra would later etch his name in history with a gold medal in Beijing.The Olympic Village is not just a place to rest and refuel. It's a place where athletes find inspiration and support. When an athlete enters the dining hall with a medal, the entire room erupts in applause. It's a reminder that every athlete, regardless of their experience or success, is part of something extraordinary.While the Paris Games will offer a predominantly vegan and vegetarian menu, athletes in Beijing had to make do with limited non-meat options. But as soon as competitions ended, the dining hall transformed into a haven for burgers and pizzas.The Olympic Village is also a place where cultural exchange flourishes. Nisha Millet's connection with athletes from Malawi, where her mother was born, is a testament to the power of sports to bridge divides. Athletes from other countries often express curiosity about India, asking about cows, yoga, and sarees.As the Games evolve, some traditions remain. Every Olympian gets to take their blanket home, a memento of their time in the Village. Nisha Millet still cherishes her blue blanket with the words "Sydney 2000" emblazoned on it.The Olympic Village is more than just a place to live. It's a crucible where dreams are forged, friendships are made, and the spirit of sportsmanship reigns supreme. It's a place where athletes from around the world come together to celebrate the power of human achievement.

Paris Olympics: A Dedicated Mental Health Zone for AthletesAt the upcoming Paris Olympics, athletes will have access to a first-of-its-kind mental health zone, known as the Athlete365 Mind Zone. This dedicated space, located within the Athletes Village, aims to address the growing recognition of the importance of mental well-being in elite sports.The Mind Zone is designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for athletes to prioritize their mental health. It features areas for guided meditation, sleep pods, yoga, and art therapy. Trained officials are also available to offer support and guidance to athletes who may be experiencing mental health concerns.The establishment of the Mind Zone is a significant step by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to promote mental health awareness and reduce the stigma associated with it. At the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, the IOC introduced a 24/7 helpline with mental health counselors, and the Paris Olympics will expand on this initiative with the dedicated zone.The need for such a space has been highlighted by the increasing number of elite athletes who have spoken out about their mental health struggles. From Naomi Osaka's withdrawal from the French Open to Simone Biles's decision to pull out of multiple events in Tokyo due to "twisties," mental health has become a prominent topic in the sports world.In India, too, athletes like Lakshya Sen and Anjum Moudgil have shared their experiences with mental health issues. Moudgil, who has dealt with imposter syndrome and a loss of form, believes that the Mind Zone will provide a valuable resource for athletes."I'm willing to experience it. It's a very positive change," said Moudgil. "There are a lot of athletes now who have started to talk about mental health."The IOC's Athlete365 survey revealed that mental health is a top priority for athletes. The Mind Zone is designed to create a space where athletes can prioritize their mental well-being alongside their physical health."The entire space is designed around decompression and disconnection," said Kirsty Burrows, Head of the IOC's Safe Sport Unit. "We want to try and make sure that we promote this concept and destigmatize conversations around mental health."The Mind Zone is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of mental health in sports. It provides a safe and supportive environment for athletes to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has cast a long shadow over the lives of its citizens, including its athletes. As the country's 143-strong contingent prepares for the Olympics in Paris, they carry the weight of their nation's struggles on their shoulders.The constant threat of missile attacks and air sirens has made training for the Games an arduous task. Electricity has become scarce, with power grids destroyed by the conflict. Despite these challenges, the athletes have persevered, determined to represent their country with honor.President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has hailed the athletes as "heroes" for their resilience. Teenaged diving sensation Oleksiy Sereda and slalom canoeist Viktoriia Us shared their experiences of training amidst the chaos."We had lots of troubles for preparation for this Olympics because there are always air alerts back home," said Sereda. "You have to go to a safe place and hide. That is why all our preparation in Ukraine was super hard."Viktoriia, who will make her third Olympic appearance, echoed Sereda's sentiments. "For me, this Olympics is not just about participation. This is super important for the people of Ukraine and soldiers protecting us," she said.Both athletes have had close calls with death. Sereda's house was hit by a shell, while Viktoriia's was struck by a missile. They worry for the safety of their families back home, especially their fathers who are serving as soldiers.Despite the trauma they have endured, Sereda and Viktoriia are determined to compete with their hearts and souls. They believe their presence at the Olympics is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people."We are here to show that Ukraine is ready to fight anywhere," said Sereda. "The world must see that Ukrainians are here and competing and everyone must remember about this horrible situation in Ukraine."

Indian hockey forward Sukhjeet Singh is brimming with confidence ahead of his Olympic debut at the Paris Games. Despite the pressure of playing at the highest level, Sukhjeet remains unfazed, drawing inspiration from his international goals.Sukhjeet made his debut for the Indian team in 2022, scoring a goal in his first match against Spain in the FIH Pro League. Since then, he has amassed 22 goals in 70 international appearances, showcasing his prowess as a prolific scorer.Physically and mentally prepared for the challenges of the Olympics, Sukhjeet is one of five debutants joining the 11 members of the Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist team. He believes that the team's experience and his own preparation will help them navigate the pressure of facing top teams in the pool.India's campaign begins on July 27 against New Zealand, followed by matches against Argentina, Ireland, Belgium, and Australia. Sukhjeet is particularly eager to face Australia, a formidable opponent that India has faced 43 times since 2013.To boost his confidence, Sukhjeet watches clips of his international goals before big matches. He also credits sports psychologists for providing valuable guidance on handling pressure.Sukhjeet's journey to hockey began at the age of six, inspired by his father, a former Punjab Police hockey player. His father's dream of seeing his son represent India has now become a reality.When asked about his aspirations for the Olympic Games Village, Sukhjeet remains focused on his preparation. He believes that the team's camaraderie and the support of senior players will help them achieve their goals.Sukhjeet's determination and unwavering belief in his abilities make him a valuable asset to the Indian hockey team. As he prepares for the biggest stage in sports, he is confident that he will make his father and the entire nation proud.

Renowned clubmaker and golf coach Sundeep Verma is set to make his third Olympic Games appearance, this time as the coach of leading Indian professional Gaganjeet Bhullar at the Paris 2024 Games. Bhullar, an 11-time Asian Tour champion, will be making his Olympic debut as part of a four-member Indian golf team that also includes Shubhankar Sharma, Aditi Ashok, and Diksha Dagar.Verma, with over 25 years of experience in the golf industry, has worked with some of India's top golfers, including Jeev Milkha Singh, Anirban Lahiri, S.S.P. Chawrasia, Jyoti Randhawa, Himmat Singh Rai, Shiv Kapur, and Shubhankar Sharma. He accompanied Chawrasia to the Rio 2016 Olympics and Diksha to the Tokyo 2020 Games, playing a crucial role in their performances.Bhullar, who is eager to make a mark in his maiden Olympic appearance, expressed his confidence in Verma's guidance. "It was quite natural to pick Sundeep as my coach. He has worked with me during my early professional days and has always been a valuable source of advice. His experience at the Olympic venue and his understanding of the game will be invaluable to me. I am confident that with him on my side, I will deliver a remarkable performance in Paris," said Bhullar.Verma, who was also the coach of the Indian amateur golf team at the Eisenhower Trophy in 2022, is excited to share his knowledge and experience with Bhullar. "I am happy to be accompanying Bhullar to Paris. I would love to pass on the learnings from Rio and Tokyo to him. He is an accomplished golfer with the right temperament and attacking mindset to perform well in big events like the Olympic Games. We will give it our best shot to return with a medal from Paris," said Verma.Bhullar's participation in the Paris Olympics has been supported by the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which has covered his expenses for airfare, boarding and lodging, registration fees, and training at the Olympic venue. He will depart for Paris along with Verma on July 28.

Reigning Olympic BMX freestyle champion Logan Martin's title defense has gotten off to a rocky start after thieves broke into the Australian team's van in Brussels, stealing equipment and personal belongings.Martin took to Instagram on Wednesday to share videos of the incident, showing the smashed passenger side window of the vehicle and police officers speaking to a member of the Australian delegation."Our van got broken into last night," Martin said in the video. "Luckily my bikes weren't in there, although my bike bags were in there with some things in it."Martin lost his wallet, backpack, and other items in the theft. "What a crazy start to the trip," he wrote in the caption of the video. "It's unfortunate when people feel the need to do things like this."In a later video, Martin and his teammates discovered some of their stolen bags beside a bench nearby. They attributed this to the "bag tags" that were attached to the bags.Martin, who won gold in Tokyo ahead of Venezuela's Daniel Dhers, is currently in Brussels with the Australian team for a training camp before leaving for Paris on Wednesday.The incident has cast a shadow over Martin's preparations for the upcoming BMX Freestyle World Championships in Abu Dhabi, which will serve as a qualifier for the 2024 Paris Olympics.Martin is one of the favorites to win the gold medal in Paris, and he will be hoping to put the theft behind him and focus on his training.