The excitement is building as 21 Indian shooters prepare to embark on their mission to Paris 2024. This record-breaking contingent will face off against 321 of the world’s best shooters, aiming to claim the ultimate prize – an Olympic medal. The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) announced the squad well ahead of the July 8 Paris 2024 entry deadline, creating a palpable sense of anticipation.
The shooters have undergone acclimatization and rigorous training at Volmerange-Les-Mines, followed by a two-week break as they await the crucial competition. This time, India boasts the largest number of shooters ever participating in the Olympics, with 21 athletes representing the nation. This surpasses the previous record of 15 shooters at Tokyo 2020. In fact, India will tie with China for the most shooters at the Games, followed closely by the Republic of Korea with 16 participants.
The squad features a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talent. Experienced pistol star Manu Bhaker and rifle wielders Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Anjum Moudgil, and Elavenil Valarivan lead the charge, bringing with them the knowledge gained from competing at the Tokyo Olympics. Meanwhile, the debutants will have the advantage of a clean slate, free from the pressure of past performances.
Following a disappointing performance at Tokyo, Indian shooters have endured a tumultuous period marked by highs and lows. The sport has witnessed several rule changes and coaching overhauls, leading to the departure of notable figures like Saurabh Chaudhary, Abhishek Verma, Apurvi Chandela, and Rahi Sarnobat. This shift in the landscape has paved the way for new talents, such as Sift Kaur Samra and Sarabjot Singh, to emerge. Bhaker, who was heavily scrutinized by the media after Tokyo, has also shown a remarkable comeback, arriving at the Games in peak form.
One crucial factor working in favor of the Indian team is Russia’s absence from the competition due to stringent qualification restrictions imposed following their invasion of Ukraine. While the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that 15 Individual Neutral Athletes (AINs) with Russian passports have qualified for the Paris Games, none of them are shooters. This absence could potentially open up opportunities for Indian athletes to secure podium finishes.
With a record-breaking squad and the absence of a formidable opponent, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown in Paris. The Indian shooting contingent has the potential to rewrite history and bring home Olympic medals. The journey to glory has begun, and the nation waits with bated breath to see these talented athletes claim their rightful place on the world stage.
