Who is Rubina Francis, pistol shooter who won India’s fifth medal at Paris Paralympics

Rubina Francis wins bronze medal: Rubina Francis, a para shooter from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, claimed India’s fifth medal at the Paris Paralympics on Saturday, after bringing home bronze in the P2 – 10m Air Pistol SH1 event.

Rubina Francis was born into a lower-middle-class family, Rubina faced the added obstacle of leg dysfunction. Her father, Simon Francis, a mechanic, struggled to support her growing passion for shooting amidst financial constraints.

Rubina’s journey in shooting began in 2015, inspired by her admiration for Gagan Narang’s Olympic achievements. Despite the financial hurdles, her determination led her to Pune’s Gun for Glory Academy in 2017, with her father’s tireless efforts. 

Under the mentorship of Jai Prakash Nautiyal, Rubina’s talent quickly became evident, leading to her selection at the MP Shooting Academy. There, under the guidance of renowned coach Jaspal Rana, her skills flourished, earning her first international medal. 

The turning point in her career came during the 2018 France World Cup, where Rubina realized the importance of securing a Paralympic quota, driving her to intensify her training. In 2019, Purnatva Academy of Sports Shooting recognized her potential, and under the expert guidance of Chief Coach Mr. Subhash Rana, Rubina’s shooting prowess blossomed. She went on to win numerous medals at national and international levels, setting world records along the way.

Her crowning achievement came at the Lima 2021 World Cup, where she secured the Paralympic Quota in the P2 category, paving the way for her representation of India at the 2021 Tokyo Paralympic Games. As India’s First Woman Pistol Para Shooter, Rubina’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sport in overcoming adversity.

Rubina Francis achivements

Paralympics Games (2020) – 7th place (P2 – 10m Air Pistol)

Asian Para Games (2022) – Bronze Medal (P2 – 10m Air Pistol)

Osijek World Cup (2023) – Silver Medal (P2 – 10m Air Pistol) & Bronze Medal (P5 – Mixed 10m Air Pistol)

Changwon World Cup (2023) – 2 Silver Medals (P2 (Team) – 10m Air Pistol &  P5 – Mixed 10m Air Pistol) and Bronze Medal (P2 – 10m Air Pistol)

Changwon World Cup (2022) – Silver Medal (P2 (Team) – 10m Air Pistol) & 2 Bronze Medals (P2 – 10m Air Pistol & P6 Mixed Team)

Chateauroux World Cup (2022) – 1 Gold Medal (P6 Mixed Team), 2 Silver Medals (P2 (Team) – 10m Air Pistol & P5 – Mixed 10m Air Pistol) and Bronze (P2 – 10m Air Pistol)

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