In a historic achievement that resonates with the motto ‘Is Baar Sau Paar’ (A Century This Time), India has officially crossed the 100-medal mark at the Hangzhou Asian Games. The Indian contingent’s stellar performances have solidified their position in the annals of sporting history. As of Friday, India had already secured an impressive tally of 95 medals, with several more medals guaranteed in compound archery (3), kabaddi (2), badminton (1), and men’s cricket (1). On the final day of Indian athletes’ events in Hangzhou, India added four more medals in archery, cementing their place in the century club.
Kabaddi Triumph: Breaking New Ground
The Indian women’s kabaddi team’s victory in the final against Chinese Taipei was a moment of pride for the nation. This marked their third title triumph in the continental showpiece, surpassing their runner-up finish in the previous edition of the Games in Indonesia. The win also fulfilled the country’s expectations of reaching the historic three-figure mark for the first time. With the 100-medal milestone reached, India boasts an impressive tally of 25 gold, 35 silver, and 40 bronze medals. Several more medals are already on the horizon.
The women’s kabaddi final proved to be an intense and closely contested battle. Chinese Taipei pushed the Indian team to its limits, falling short of the top prize by just one point. The Indian athletes displayed incredible composure and determination in the final two raids, securing victory in their favor. The halftime lead of five points, courtesy of a super raid by Pooja, was instrumental in India’s triumph. The title showdown also witnessed a green card caution for the Indian team’s coach, adding to the drama.
The Indian contingent’s performance in Hangzhou has surpassed all expectations. With 100 medals to their name, India’s athletes have showcased their mettle on the continental stage. The current tally includes an impressive 25 gold, 35 silver, and 40 bronze medals. India’s medal count is set to increase further with more assured medals still to come.
The Asian Games 2023 have been a historic milestone for India in various sports. Standout performances by the shooters, who have secured 22 medals, and the track and field athletes, who have contributed 29 medals, have propelled India to new heights. These athletes have demonstrated remarkable skill and determination, consistently delivering podium finishes.
A Multifaceted Triumph and Unexpected Triumphs
The Indian contingent has achieved numerous surprise medals during the Asian Games. One of the most remarkable victories was in women’s table tennis, where Sutirtha Mukherjee and Ayhika Mukherjee secured a bronze medal by defeating the formidable Chinese team in the semifinals.
Parul Chaudhary’s incredible dash in the final 30 meters of the women’s 5000m event will be etched in memory as she clinched gold by narrowly edging out Japan’s Ririka Hironaka in a thrilling finish.
The men’s javelin event witnessed a breathtaking moment when Kishore Kumar Jena unleashed an astonishing 86.77m throw, briefly taking the lead over superstar Neeraj Chopra. Chopra ultimately secured the gold, with Jena settling for a well-deserved silver medal.
The Asian Games have also witnessed inspirational stories of determination and resilience. Canoers Arjun Singh and Sunil Singh Salam made history by securing bronze in the men’s double 1000m event. Ram Baboo and Manju Rani’s third-place finish in the mixed 35km race walk demonstrated that athletes who refuse to yield to life’s hardships can excel in sports.
The Hangzhou Asian Games have not only been a celebration of sporting excellence but also a testament to the indomitable spirit of India’s athletes. Their extraordinary achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the nation, proving that with unwavering commitment and relentless effort, greatness can be achieved.
