Abhinav Bindra conferred with 'Olympic Order' by International Olympic Committee

India's first Olympics shooting gold medallist Abhinav Bindra was conferred with 'Olympic Order' which is the highest honour bestowed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).  It recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Olympic Movement. This prestigious award is a testament to a person's dedication, sportsmanship, and impact on the global sporting stage. Bindra was the first Indian who win an Olympic gold medal in an individual event. 
 

"When I was a young boy, it was these Olympic rings, which gave meaning to my life," Bindra said.

"And it was a privilege to be able to pursue my Olympic dream for over two decades. Post my athletic career, it has been a great passion of mine to try and contribute back to the Olympic Movement. It has been a privilege and an honour," he added.

The 41-year-old, who is also the vice chair of the IOC Athletes' Commission, said the award will inspire him to continue to work even harder and keep contributing to the Olympic Movement. 

The Olympic Order: A Symbol of Excellence
 

The Olympic Order is the highest honor bestowed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). It recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Olympic Movement. This prestigious award is a testament to a person's dedication, sportsmanship, and impact on the global sporting stage.

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Criteria for Awarding the Olympic Order
 

To be considered for the Olympic Order, an individual must have:

Illustrated the Olympic ideal through their actions
 

Achieved remarkable merit in the sporting world
 

Rendered outstanding services to the Olympic cause, either through personal achievements or contributions to the Olympic Movement.
 

Previous Notable Recipients of the Olympic Order

The Olympic Order has been awarded to a diverse group of individuals, including:

Athletes: Fanny Blankers-Koen, Jean-Claude Killy, Jesse Owens, Steffi Graf, Alberto Tomba
 

World Leaders: Indira Gandhi, Nelson Mandela
 

Olympic Officials and Contributors: Juan Antonio Samaranch (former IOC President), Jacques Rogge (former IOC President)

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