The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India — three in shooting, including Manu Bhaker, who won two bronze medals before falling in the 25m pistol final, besides in archery, badminton and now, weightlifting. Mirabai Chanu became the sixth Indian to finish fourth in the Paris Olympics, managing a total effort of 199kg (88kg+111kg) in the 49kg category of women’s weightlifting at the South Paris Arena on Wednesday.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, marking yet another instance of coming so close yet missing the podium. Mirabai Chanu’s performance in the women’s 49kg weightlifting category saw her lifting a total of 199kg, just shy of the medals. This event epitomises the tough competition and high stakes at the Paris Games, especially for Indian athletes.
The 29-year-old had won the silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. China’s Hou Zhihui defended her title successfully with an effort of 206kg (89kg+117kg) while Romania’s Mihaela Cambei took home the silver with a total of 205kg (93kg+112kg). Thailand’s Surodchana Khambao claimed bronze, lifting 1kg more than Chanu. Wednesday was clearly not India’s day — with Vinesh Phogat being disqualified from the final; Antim Panghal deported; and Chanu’s so-near-yet-so-far story.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, a pattern observed not just in weightlifting but across various sports. Mirabai Chanu, who had previously clinched a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, faced tough competition. China’s Hou Zhihui retained her title with a 206kg lift, while Romania’s Mihaela Cambei and Thailand’s Surodchana Khambao secured silver and bronze, respectively. The disappointment for India was compounded by setbacks in wrestling and weightlifting.
To win a medal, Chanu needed to go beyond 200, but it became difficult after failed attempts in the clean and jerk. First, she needed two attempts to lift 111kg and then failed with the 114kg. Chanu, who turns 30 on Thursday, was given a rousing welcome by the Indian fans when the 12 lifters in the category were introduced. She waved and smiled at the fans, had a good snatch with 88kg, her highest in the snatch. She was vying for bronze at one point.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, highlighting the narrow margins between success and heartbreak. Chanu’s efforts were commendable, especially her snatch of 88kg, her personal best. However, the clean and jerk proved challenging, with failed attempts at 114kg dashing her medal hopes. Despite the outcome, Chanu’s spirit and determination were evident as she received enthusiastic support from Indian fans.
Among those in the arena rooting for Chanu was Sydney Olympic Games bronze medallist weightlifter Karnam Malleswari.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, drawing support from former Olympians and sports enthusiasts. Karnam Malleswari, India’s first female weightlifting medallist, was present to cheer for Chanu. Her presence underscored the legacy and inspiration that past champions continue to provide to current athletes, even in moments of disappointment.
The build-up to the Games had not been ideal for India’s lone lifter in Paris as injury woes bogged her down. In the past, the determined and resilient Chanu has shown her ability to fight through adversity. She had battled intense menstrual cramps to win the medal in Tokyo and attempted a 117kg clean and jerk lift despite injuring herself during the Asian Games. But Paris proved to be unlucky for her.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, reflecting both the highs and lows of an athlete’s journey. Chanu’s preparations were hampered by injuries, yet her past resilience, such as overcoming menstrual cramps in Tokyo, highlighted her determination. The Paris Games, however, did not favour her, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of sports and the thin line between victory and defeat.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India — three in shooting, including Manu Bhaker, who won two bronze medals before falling in the 25m pistol final, besides in archery, badminton and now, weightlifting.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, a recurring theme across multiple disciplines. Manu Bhaker’s performance in shooting, with two bronze medals and a narrow miss in the 25m pistol final, mirrors the challenges faced by Indian athletes. The trend of fourth-place finishes extends to archery, badminton, and weightlifting, reflecting the intense global competition.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India — three in shooting, including Manu Bhaker, who won two bronze medals before falling in the 25m pistol final, besides in archery, badminton and now, weightliftingMirabai Chanu became the sixth Indian to finish fourth in the Paris Olympics, managing a total effort of 199kg (88kg+111kg) in the 49kg category of women’s weightlifting at the South Paris Arena on Wednesday.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, with athletes like Mirabai Chanu and Manu Bhaker embodying the near-miss narrative. Chanu’s total of 199kg in weightlifting and Bhaker’s close call in shooting highlight the competitive spirit and the fine margins that separate medals from fourth-place finishes.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, a pattern that underscores both the progress and the challenges faced by Indian athletes on the global stage.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, encapsulating the bittersweet reality of international competition. While these fourth-place finishes signify commendable performances, they also reflect the challenges Indian athletes face in breaking through to the podium. The determination and resilience displayed by athletes like Mirabai Chanu serve as a testament to their hard work and dedication.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, marking a journey filled with close encounters and near-misses across various sports.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, a narrative that highlights the highs and lows of the sporting world. Each fourth-place finish, whether in shooting, archery, badminton, or weightlifting, tells a story of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of excellence. These experiences, though bittersweet, contribute to the growth and evolution of Indian sports on the global stage.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, a testament to the fierce competition and the unwavering spirit of Indian athletes.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, reflecting the competitive spirit and the fine margins of victory. While these results may not bring home medals, they showcase the relentless effort and determination of Indian athletes. The journey of athletes like Mirabai Chanu, despite the setbacks, continues to inspire and motivate future generations.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, but they also highlight the progress and potential of Indian athletes.
The Paris Games have become a story of fourth finishes for India, demonstrating the progress and potential within the realm of Indian sports. Each near-miss is a step forward, a lesson in resilience and determination. As Indian athletes continue to strive for excellence, these experiences will undoubtedly pave the way for future successes on the global stage.
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