Para-Archer Sheetal Devi Scripts History, Joins Able-Bodied International Squad

In a landmark moment that redefines the limits of sporting achievement, para-archer Sheetal Devi has been selected for India’s able-bodied junior team for the upcoming Asia Cup Stage 3 in Jeddah. The 18-year-old compound archer from Jammu and Kashmir, who was born without arms due to a rare congenital condition called phocomelia, has become the first Indian para-athlete to earn a spot in an able-bodied international squad.

A Dream Realised Through Sheer Performance

Sheetal Devi’s selection is a powerful testament to her exceptional talent, sheer willpower, and consistent performance. Competing against more than 60 able-bodied archers at the rigorous four-day National Selection Trials in Sonipat, she secured a commendable third-place finish in the final women’s compound rankings.

Her qualification rounds were nothing short of spectacular. Sheetal scored a total of 703 points, matching the impressive total of the top qualifier, Tejal Salve. Her ability to hold her own under identical competitive conditions demonstrates that her selection was based purely on merit, transcending the traditional boundaries of para-sports classification.

Overcoming Adversity with Unwavering Determination

Sheetal’s journey is one of immense grit. She uses a unique and highly developed technique, drawing and releasing the bow using her legs and shoulders, a skill she refined after drawing inspiration from American armless archer Matt Stutzman and Turkey’s Paralympic champion Oznur Cure Girdi, who also competes in able-bodied events.

• She had to rebuild her shooting stance following a rule change by World Archery that barred her heel from touching the bow, an arduous process that demanded immense control and stability using only the toe and front of the foot.
• After initially failing to secure a place in past able-bodied trials, Sheetal persevered, embodying her belief: “I have not seen myself as lesser than anybody.”

This historic achievement follows a string of world-class performances. Sheetal is already the first female armless world champion in para archery and a Paris Paralympics bronze medallist in the mixed team compound event. Her qualification for the Asia Cup not only fulfills a long-held personal dream—to compete alongside able-bodied athletes—but also marks a monumental step for inclusivity in Indian and global sports.