New Delhi, India, May 1, 2024: C.A. Bhavani Devi, the first Indian fencer to qualify for the Olympics, has spoken about her anguish at not being able to repeat her Tokyo 2020 heroics at Paris this summer.
In a post on social media, sabre specialist Bhavani Devi wrote about her crushing disappointment in failing to book a ticket to Paris at the Asian and Oceania Olympic qualifying tournament in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.
“The Paris Olympic Games won’t be part of my journey, a disappointment I hadn’t anticipated. The past three years have proven to be incredibly challenging, exceeding my expectations, particularly on a mental level.
"Despite the obstacles, I persisted, pouring my efforts, sacrifices and resilience into achieving a goal,” Bhavani Devi, 30, wrote on her Facebook page on Tuesday, April 30.
“Today’s realisation that I won’t be at the Olympics hit me hard – it was a dream I worked tirelessly for, one that consumed my thoughts day and night.
"Enduring separation from my family, constant tournament travels and an injury during a crucial period – all part of the unpredictable nature of sports where victory and defeat coexist.
“I harbour no blame, only gratitude for the opportunities and adversities that have fortified me. I know I gave my all in every training session and preparation.
"Yet, I can’t deny the deep sadness and pain I feel. However, I aim to recover swiftly and focus on upcoming events,” said Bhavani Devi, who became the first Indian fencer to qualify for the Olympics – at Tokyo 2020.
The Chennai-born fencer, who was also the first Indian fencer to win a medal at the Asian Fencing Championships – a bronze at Wuxi, China in 2023 – thanked her support base, including the Go Sports Foundation, Fencing India and the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board, and especially acknowledged her family for their unwavering encouragement.
“Thank you, everyone. Jai Hind.”
