In a historic achievement for India, the Dressage Team clinched a Gold medal at the Asian Games on Tuesday, September 26, marking the country’s first Gold in Equestrian after a remarkable 41-year gap. This triumph boosted India’s medal tally to 14, comprising 3 Gold, 4 Silver, and 7 Bronze medals. Additionally, two more sailing medals were expected to be added to the tally following the conclusion of the sailing competitions.
The Indian men’s volleyball team concluded their impressive campaign on a bittersweet note, securing the 6th position after a 3-0 loss to Pakistan.
In tennis, Sumit Nagal and Ankita Raina progressed to the quarter-finals in men’s and women’s singles, respectively. The mixed doubles team of Yuki Bhambri and Ankita Raina also claimed a victory against Pakistan, while the women’s doubles campaign came to an end.
The men and women’s squash teams started their campaign with victories in their group matches. India’s men’s hockey team continued to impress with a dominant 16-1 win over Singapore in their Pool A match.
However, there was disappointment in the shooting events, with the mixed 10m Air Rifle team narrowly missing out on a Bronze medal. On a positive note, Manu Bhakar excelled in the 25m pistol precision round, topping the standings.
Historic Equestrian Gold: India’s Equestrian team secured a Gold medal for the first time since 1982 at the Asian Games. The team triumphed in the Team Dressage event with a total score of 209.205, surpassing China and Hong Kong China to secure the top position.
Sailing Medals: Neha Thakur won the silver medal in the Girl’s Dinghy ILCA4 event, while Ali clinched a bronze in the men’s windsurfer RS:X event.
Wushu and Judo: India had mixed results in Wushu and Judo, with some athletes losing their bouts while others progressed to the next rounds.
Shooting Heartbreak: The mixed 10m Air Rifle team narrowly missed out on a Bronze medal. Manu Bhakar performed exceptionally well in the 25m pistol precision round.
Hockey Domination: India’s men’s hockey team continued their dominant run with a resounding 16-1 victory over Singapore.
Squash Teams Shine: India’s squash teams had a strong start, winning their pool matches.
Mixed Day in Tennis: Sumit Nagal and Ankita Raina advanced in singles, while the mixed doubles team secured a convincing win. However, the women’s doubles campaign ended.
Boxers Shine: Indian boxers Narendar and Sachin Siwach delivered strong performances in their respective categories.
Chess Medals Incoming?: Indian chess players Vidit Gujrathi and Arjun Erigaisi performed well, with Vidit in joint second place. In the women’s event, Koneru Humpy and D Harika recorded wins.
National Record for Swimmers: Indian swimmers set a national record in the 4x100m medley relay, although they narrowly missed a medal. Other swimmers had varying levels of success.
Volleyball Defeat to Pakistan: The Indian men’s volleyball team settled for the sixth spot after a defeat to arch-rival Pakistan in three straight sets.
This historic victory in Equestrian and the overall performance of Indian athletes across various sports showcased the country’s prowess on the Asian Games stage.
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