In her childhood Rubina Francis used to dream of following her idol, Olympic medalist shooter Gagan Narang. But winning a medal on the biggest stage was a daring aim for her. Rubina could not stand on her feet! Standing on her feet was the biggest challenge. Who knew about 31st August 2024 that Rubina would be the first Indian Para-pistol shooter to win a medal (bronze) in the ongoing Paralympics?

The 25-year-old from Jabalpur was born with clubfoot, a severe foot abnormality. The disease prevented her from staying steady while shooting at the target. She even could not shoot properly while sitting.

Her coach, JP Nautiyal revealed he tried making her shoot in a sitting position. But that did not click. Rubina was perplexed and depressed. She started giving up the dream of cherishing the dream of becoming a professional shooter. 

Her coaches finally came up with a solution, making special shoes for her that helped her to stand and maintain her balance while shooting. It was tireless hard work by the coaches as well as Rubina to settle with a pistol and shooting ultimately.

All the hard work paid dividends on Saturday in Paris after Rubina's dream came true with a bronze in the women's 10m air pistol (SH1) event, the first-ever by an India Para-shooter in the Paralympics. 

Rubina also remembered her parents standing on the podium. Her father, Simon Francis, worked as a mechanic, struggling to support her growing interest in shooting amid financial constraints, and Rubina's mother who works as a nurse created the support system that drove Rubina to cross the long way overcoming all odds. Despite the financial hardship, her parents spent almost all of their deposits on their daughter. 

Rubina's passion for shooting ignited in 2015, fueled by her admiration for Olympian Gagan Narang. Despite the family's limited means, her unwavering determination led her to Pune's Gun for Glory Academy in 2017 and the journey began. 

There is also a common character between Rubina and Manu Bhaker. He is the renowned coach of Jashpal Rana who is also a mentor and coach of Manu Bhaker. 

After Rubina’s performance progressed she drew the attention of her mentor Jai Prakash Nautiyal and this led to her selection for the MP Shooting Academy, where she could get the opportunity to train under the expert guidance of Rana. 

Under his mentorship, Rubina honed her skills and won her first international medal, marking the beginning of her ascent in the sport.