Jodie Grinham secures Paris bronze

Jodie Grinham's recent achievement at the Paris International Championships has garnered significant attention within the sporting community, particularly in the realm of competitive athletics. Securing a bronze medal in a highly contested event, Grinham's performance not only reflects her personal dedication but also underscores the evolving landscape of women's sports on an international stage. This accomplishment is emblematic of her rigorous training regimen and strategic preparation leading up to the competition.

The significance of Grinham's bronze medal extends beyond individual accolades; it serves as a critical marker for female athletes striving for recognition in traditionally male-dominated arenas. Her success contributes to a broader narrative advocating for gender equity in sports, highlighting that women are increasingly capable of competing at elite levels. The visibility provided by such achievements can inspire younger generations to pursue athletic endeavors, thereby fostering greater participation and investment in women's sports programs.

The 26-year Turkish archer Oznur Cure Girdi earned the status of a para archery star at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. She broke the compound women's world record in the ranking round reaching over 700 and preserved her outstanding shape in the elimination rounds. 

Oznur captured her first Paralympic gold defeating Iran's Fatemeh Hemmati 144-141 in the final.

They tied in the first end, but as the match went on, Cure Girdi moved on shooting 10s and nines to build a 2-point advantage. Before the last end, she led by 3 points and didn't let the gold slip out of her hands.

She confirmed her dominance and the role of top contender in each match. She seemed just unstoppable. And she was.

Grinham bent over in shock, before the two hugged – they’ve been buddies since they were teenagers, training together since 2014.

“I knew I needed a 10 to put any pressure on her,” Grinham said, “Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t and it sucks where it’s a teammate but we both know that’s sport.”

Grinham, tall, shocking pink fringe, and long hair dyed blue at the ends, has an unerring eye for the centre of a target. But the swollen belly of a seven-month pregnant woman has meant making adjustments, with an extra low-slung quiver round her middle, which in turn has meant she has had to tweak how she lifts and holds the bow. And flat shoes to stop her rocking around in a sport where concentration is everything.

Grinham is back in action on Monday in the mixed team compound with Nathan MacQueen.

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Sarah H

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