Asian Youth Archery 2024: Vaishnavi Pawar stars as Indian women win silver

Rising star Vaishnavi Pawar helped India secure silver in the recurve U-18 women's team category at the 2024 Asian Youth Archery Championship, defeating South Korea in the semifinals and narrowly missing gold against Chinese Taipei.

In Short

• Vaishnavi led India to silver in the Asian Youth Championship
• India defeated South Korea in a dramatic semifinal shoot-off
• Vaishnavi credited Punit Balan Group for unwavering support in success

Rising Indian archer Vaishnavi Pawar, supported by the Punit Balan Group, delivered a stellar performance as the Indian team secured a silver medal in the recurve U-18 women's team category at the 2024 Asian Youth Archery Championship in Taipei City, Chinese Taipei. Vaishnavi, alongside teammates Pranjal Tholiya and Jannat, consistently took the first shot in every round, showcasing her ability to handle pressure.

The Indian team achieved a remarkable victory over South Korea in the semi-finals in a dramatic shoot-off. In the final, India found themselves in a similar situation, fighting back from a 2-4 deficit to force a shoot-off for the gold medal against the host nation, who ultimately emerged victorious.

"I am incredibly proud to represent India alongside my teammates. Beating South Korea in the semi-finals was a significant milestone for us, and we are determined to keep striving for more. I am especially grateful for the unwavering support from the Punit Balan Group, which has been instrumental in my journey thus far. Winning silver at the Asian Youth Archery Championship is a testament to our hard work and dedication, and it inspires me to aim even higher in the future," Vaishnavi commented.

Originally from Malkapur Village in Latur district, Maharashtra, Vaishnavi now trains in Pune. She received financial assistance from the Punit Balan Group in July last year, who recognised her prodigious talent. The PBG provides her with funding for training and competitions, along with essential equipment and support.

“It’s a proud moment for us that Vaishnavi has made India proud by helping the team win a silver medal in Chinese Taipei. The level of competition at the Asian level is strong, and Vaishnavi showed that she has the potential to beat the best on the world stage,” said Punit Balan, chairman and managing director of the Punit Balan Group.

“We will extend all the help required for Vaishnavi to fulfil her dream of representing the country and winning medals at the world championships and the Olympics. This result only shows that she is on the right path,” he added.

Vaishnavi, who finished fourth in the trials to qualify for the championships, also reached the quarter-finals in the individual category.