The Paris Olympics are about to kick off, and the excitement is reaching fever pitch! Get ready for the action as 21 Indian shooters prepare to take on the world’s best at the Châteauroux range.
India has never sent a larger contingent of shooters to the Olympics. The previous record of 15 was set at Tokyo 2020. This time, India ties with China for the highest number of shooters, sending 21 athletes to compete in France. This impressive roster includes both familiar faces like pistol star Manu Bhaker and rifle wielders Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Anjum Moudgil, and Elavenil Valarivan, as well as a fresh crop of talented newcomers.
While the veterans bring their experience from Tokyo, the debutants are eager to prove themselves on the world stage. After returning empty-handed from Tokyo, Indian shooters faced a rollercoaster of results in the following years. The landscape of shooting changed dramatically, with new rules and coaching staff, leading to the decline of some prominent names like Saurabh Chaudhary, Abhishek Verma, Apurvi Chandela, and Rahi Sarnobat. However, the change in guard also paved the way for new stars like Sift Kaur Samra and Sarabjot Singh to rise to the forefront.
Manu Bhaker, who faced immense pressure after Tokyo, has bounced back and is ready to compete. A key factor in India’s favor this year is the absence of Russian shooters, who have been barred due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. While the IOC has allowed a limited number of neutral Russian athletes to compete, none are shooters.
This year’s Indian shooting team is poised to make history in Paris. The experience of the veterans combined with the youthful energy of the newcomers could lead to a successful campaign for India. Get ready for an exciting competition as these shooters fight for Olympic glory!
