Seasoned rifle shooter Sanjeev Rajput is reasonably satisfied with his performances over the last three days in the shooting trials conducted by the National Rifle Association of India at the Karni Singh ranges in Tughlakabad.
From Thursday to Saturday, Rajput shot three matches, two in 3P and one in air rifle. Having topped the first match on Thursday, with a decent score, Rajput was able to feel what is like to shoot a match after nearly 10 months.
The Covid-19 enforced lockdown and restrictions on sporting activity in 2020 had made life miserable for most Indian athletes. Resumption of training, access to the ranges and getting back to rhythm has been a laborious process for almost all the rifle shooters.
A cursory glance at the scores in 3P and air rifle (men and women) shows how the big names, notably those who have won quota places for the Tokyo Olympics are definitely struggling to hit top gear.
Names like Divyansh Panwar, Anjum Moudgil, Mehuli Ghosh not figuring in the top of the score sheets may look worrying. For some, training at home in air rifle and pistol events was possible. Yet, to shoot competitive matches in an actual range is different.
Speaking to this writer, Rajput said he is happy to be able to get going. “To be away from shooting for four months and return to the ranges was not easy at all. There were so many issues to be dealt with. However, I wish to thank and praise the Sports Authority of India and the National Rifle Association of India for creating the Bio Bubble,” said Rajput.
“I must have got tested for Covid019 at least 15 times now. Life in the Bio Bubble is a new experience and I am happy hard preparations have started for the Tokyo Olympics,” said Rajput.
In his view, when he started shooting the first match after a huge gap, it was a question of mind over matter. “I think in the kneeling position, I faced problems first on Thursday. When you do not shoot for long, the body muscles become inactive. Despite return to shooting, the smaller muscles which you need to be in control of for shooting more precise shots inside the ring need more time. I did not do well in the second 3P trial but then this is the return for all of us,” he said.
By his own admission, Rajput has not been shooting air rifle “that much.” Yet, on Saturday, he shot reasonably well when compared to a few heavyweight names in the air rifle match.
The seasoned shooter who turned 40 on January 5 felt more matches will make him sharper. For the NRAI, which has a tight selection policy, all these scores will be of great importance.
For the record, World No.1 Elavenil Valarivan topped the women’s air rifle trial on Saturday. Hriday Hazarika topped in men’s air rifle.
Mr. S. Kannan
Senior, Sports Journalist
