PHOTO: Bildbyrån
Silver in Tokyo 2021. Silver in Paris 2024.
Swedish shooter Anna Benson continues to win medals in the Paralympics.
– It means a lot, she says.
In the 50 meter rifle, lying down, it was a thrilling final. In the end, it was Benson who came second. The gold went to Germany’s Natascha Hiltrop and the bronze was taken by Jean-Louis Michaud, France.
Afterwards, the joy was great.
– It was deep inside, she laughs.
– It means a lot. I have done three great races but today I got the margins on my side. It feels very, very good, she says.
Nice revenge
The 40-year-old from Halmstad had previously finished fourth and fifth during the games. A nice revenge to finally get on the podium, in other words. Also a favorite in a repeat from Tokyo three years ago.
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The key behind the success? That she managed to stick to her plan.
– Despite my heart beating at 220, I have been able to focus on my technique and do what I need to do, she says.
Victorious Hiltrop won on a score of 250.2 – a Paralympic record. Benson’s score was 248.8. Afterwards, she got to celebrate with her family, who were there to follow the shiver.
– It means a lot and it’s great fun, she says.
“Not as scared”
Since the success in Tokyo three years ago, Benson has become a mother to son John. Something that she believes has been positive for her athletes.
– Someone else decides your time now. It’s a challenge and I like challenges. Then you have something else. I’m not as afraid of failure now that I have John. I have already won, she says.
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The shooting competitions in the Paralympics are decided, just like during the Olympics, in Châteauroux, which is located south of the French capital. Benson competes in the SH1 class and has a so-called drop foot. It means “severe constant pain, great difficulty walking on the right foot and non-existent balance”, according to the Swedish Paralympic Committee.
The medal is Sweden’s second in this year’s Paralympics. Since before, Anna Beck has won a bronze in the tempo race in cycling.
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