Asian Games: Manu Bhaker Looks Back On Her Journey As India’s Flag-Bearer

Manu Bhaker recalled her progression from a 16-year-old Asian Games debutant to becoming one of India’s flag-bearers at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games opening ceremony.

The double Olympic medallist said the announcement brought back memories of her early years in shooting and made her reflect on the journey she had travelled in sport.

“Honestly, when I got to know yesterday, I had all these flashback memories of my earlier days. And, you know, when I started, I never thought that this is where I could reach one day in my sport. So, it is definitely a very heartwarming feeling. I feel really proud, honoured, and happy to be chosen as the flag bearer of my homeland. I just want to say thank you to God and thank you to everyone for all the love and support,” Bhaker said in an Indian Olympic Association video.

Bhaker first represented India at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta and Palembang and is now competing at her third edition.

The athlete said she had eventually found herself either carrying the flag or watching the ceremony on television, making her latest responsibility particularly nostalgic.

Message to Indian Athletes

Bhaker asked fellow members of the Indian contingent to embrace the Games despite difficulties or concerns surrounding the event.

She urged athletes to value the opportunity, enjoy their time in Japan and avoid spending valuable energy on complaints.

The shooter also called on her teammates to concentrate on preparation and performance rather than focusing solely on the medal count.

She said the athletes had already worked hard to reach the Games and should use their remaining energy to perform at their highest level.

Meanwhile, Bhaker and kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat led India as flag-bearers at the opening ceremony on Saturday.

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