Archery / Indian Women Compound Archers Defend Asian Games Gold, Breaks World Record

Okazaki, Sep 30: India’s compound archery stars scripted another golden chapter at the Asian Games, outclassing China 238‑234 in a high‑pressure final at Okazaki Chuo Sogo Park Multipurpose Square on Wednesday.

The trio of Chikitha Taniparthi, Prithika Pradeep, and Jyothi Surekha Vennam showcased flawless precision and nerves of steel, ensuring India successfully defended its crown while adding a seventh gold to the nation’s tally at the ongoing continental spectacle.

India had previously won silver in 2018 and bronze in 2014, making this victory a significant milestone. The team edged past South Korea in the semifinal before overcoming China in the final with a score that matched the world record of 238, set by the Koreans at Incheon 2014.

Also read: Vithya Anchors India to 4x400m Relay Gold at Asian Games

The match showcased India’s consistency across all ends. After taking a 30‑28 lead in the opening round, the trio extended their advantage to three points despite Chikitha shooting a nine early in the second end. Prithika and Jyothi remained flawless, consistently hitting 10s.

At the halfway stage, India led 119‑116. In End 3, China struck perfect 10s, but India responded with three 10s in the second rotation to maintain a 178‑175 lead.

The final end sealed the contest. China began with two nines and a 10, while India answered with perfect 10s. Even as China closed with three 10s, the Indian trio maintained composure, finishing with six consecutive 10s to clinch the gold 238‑234.

This triumph capped India’s most successful Asian Games archery campaign. At Hangzhou 2023, India won a record nine medals — five gold, two silver, and two bronze. The compound archers swept all five gold medals on offer, while the recurve teams added a silver and a bronze.

India’s dominance in compound archery has now firmly established the nation as a powerhouse in the discipline.

(IANS)