In the summer of 2022, Uttam Maskar, a hardworking milkman, made a life-changing decision. He bought his daughter, Sonam, her first air gun, a Walther LG 400, to support her fledgling shooting career. Little did he know that this investment would lead his daughter to the podium at the prestigious ISSF World Cup finals in New Delhi.
Sonam’s journey is one of resilience and dedication. Despite facing numerous challenges, she has risen to become one of India’s brightest prospects in the 10m air rifle category. Her silver medal at the World Cup finals, amidst a field of Olympic medalists, was a testament to her unwavering focus and talent. The 21-year-old Sonam only missed out on the gold by a new world record set by China’s double Olympic medalist Huang Yuting.
Her success story is a testament to her unwavering determination and the sacrifices made by her family. Sonam’s path to the international stage was not paved with privilege. Her family’s life took a turn during the COVID-19 pandemic when Uttam lost his milk distribution business and had to sell most of their assets, eventually relocating back to their village in Maharashtra.
Despite the hardships, Sonam’s passion for shooting remained strong. She joined Ved Shooting academy in Kolhapur, where her natural talent was evident. But to reach her full potential, she needed better equipment, which her father, despite the financial constraints, managed to secure for her.
The support from her father and coach, Rohit Havaldar, played a crucial role in her progress. Havaldar, a former international player, recognized Sonam’s potential and knew that providing her with the right equipment was essential for her growth.
Sonam’s dedication and hard work paid off. She quickly climbed the ranks, finishing in the top 30 at her first national championships and securing a spot on the junior team for international competitions. She competed at the 2023 Junior World Championships and the Asian Junior championships, showcasing her talent on the global stage.
While Sonam missed out on the Paris Olympics by a narrow margin, her coach believes she has a bright future ahead. Sonam, too, is determined to compete at the highest level. With her sights set on the Los Angeles 2028 Games, she continues to train hard, seeking to achieve her ultimate goal of an Olympic gold medal.
Sonam’s journey from a struggling family to an international medalist is an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide. It is a reminder that with dedication, talent, and unwavering support, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.
