When Bindra shot his way to gold

Flashback Beijing 2008

China laid on the most extravagant opening ceremony yet for a Games designed to demonstrate its burgeoning economic and political might.

Fears about possible terrorism, athletes’ protests following the disruption of the torch relay by pro-Tibet supporters and air quality proved unfounded and the Games provided a stage for the best sprinter and swimmer in Olympic history.

 Competing in the ‘Bird’s Nest’ stadium, Usain Bolt shattered the world 100 and 200 metres records and led the Jamaican team to a further world record in the 4x100 metres relay. In the pool, Michael Phelps won a record eight gold medals and set six world records.

 After years of struggle, India made it to the gold medal zone, thanks to Abhinav Bindra’s brilliant performance in shooting. Bindra, firing a stupendous 10.8 in his final shot, emerged triumphant in the men’s 10M air rifle. Russian Yelena Isinbayeva increased her own world pole vault record to 5.05 metres.

The hosts won the most gold medals, displacing the United States from the top of the medals tally.

 Did you know?

Canada’s Ian Millar, competing in his ninth Games, won his first medal, a silver, in team jumping. He also competed in London 2012, a record 10th Olympic appearance.