In the realm of para sports, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Swaroop and Romy Unhalkar. This husband-and-wife duo has seamlessly blended their personal and professional lives, emerging as formidable figures in Indian shooting. (More Sports News)
Their journey, marked by resilience and mutual support, serves as an inspiring testament to the power of love and dedication in the pursuit of athletic excellence.
Swaroop, a two-time Paralympian, showcased his exceptional prowess at the ongoing Khelo India Para Games 2025 by clinching the gold medal in the R1 – Men라이브 바카라 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 event at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range.
His path to this achievement was anything but straightforward. Diagnosed with polio as a child, Swaroop faced significant challenges, including limited access to training facilities and financial constraints that prevented him from acquiring his own equipment.
Undeterred, he began competing in 2012 with a decade-old rifle gifted by his coach. His perseverance paid off, making him the first shooter from Maharashtra to win medals at the national level and qualify for international competitions. His dedication was further recognized with Maharashtra's prestigious Chhatrapati Award, the state's highest sports honor.
Romy's journey into shooting began through her relationship with Swaroop. Introduced by a mutual friend in Pune around 2021-2022, their professional interactions soon blossomed into a deep personal bond. After their marriage, inspired by Swaroop's passion, Romy took up shooting. Over the past three years, the couple has traveled together, competing and often medaling as a team.
At the Khelo India Para Games, Romy demonstrated her growing competence by finishing fourth in the R2 – Air Rifle Standing Women SH1 qualifying round and securing eighth place in the finals.
The Unhalkars' narrative mirrors other renowned athletic couples whose mutual support has propelled them to greater heights. Notably, at the Paris Olympics, with her husband Hunter Woodhall cheering from the stands, Tara Davis clinched the long jump gold.
This victory catalyzed Hunter, who, inspired by Tara's success, secured gold in the T62 400m race at the Paralympics a month later. Such stories underscore the profound impact of personal support systems in achieving sporting excellence.
Looking ahead, Swaroop and Romy are set to compete in their first international event together at the 2025 WSPS World Cup in Changwon, South Korea. This milestone brings Romy closer to her aspiration of becoming a Paralympian, following in her husband's illustrious footsteps.
Reflecting on the Khelo India Para Games, Swaroop expressed appreciation for the platform it provides to para-athletes, emphasizing the exposure and opportunities it offers. Romy echoed this sentiment, highlighting the national-level experience gained and anticipating increased participation in shooting sports in the future.
Their collective message is both clear and empowering: pursue your passions wholeheartedly, embrace the opportunities available, and maintain a positive mindset.
