Paris: Indian shooting icon Abhinav Bindra was awarded the prestigious Olympic Order on Saturday in recognition of his “outstanding contribution” to the Olympic movement.
Bindra, who became India’s first individual Olympic gold medallist with his maiden finish in the 10m air rifle shooting event at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, received the honour from the International Olympic Committee during its 142nd session here.
“When I was a little boy, it was those Olympic rings that gave my life meaning,” Bindra said.
“And it has been a privilege to be able to pursue my Olympic dream for over two decades. After my sporting career, it was a great passion of mine to try to give something back to the Olympic movement. It has been a privilege and an honour,” he added.
The 41-year-old, who is also vice-chairman of the IOC Athletes’ Commission, said the award would encourage him to continue working harder and contributing to the Olympic Movement.
Established in 1975, the Olympic Order is the highest honour of the Olympic Movement. It is awarded to individuals for their outstanding contribution to the Olympic Movement.
Bindra competed in the Summer Olympics five times, starting in Sydney 2000. He first came to attention in Athens 2004 when he made it to the final of the men’s 10m air rifle shooting.
In Beijing 2008, he defeated defending champion Zhu Qinan from China to win the gold medal. He also made it to the final in Rio 2016, but finished fourth.
Bindra has been part of the IOC Athletes’ Commission since 2018.
Published 11 August 2024, 00:11 IS
