Arjun Babuta, a distinguished shooter, made headlines at India’s national shooting trials 2024 by equaling the world record score in the men’s 10m air rifle final. Held at the MP State Shooting Academy ranges in Bhopal, the trials witnessed Babuta’s exceptional performance, scoring 253.7 points and mirroring Olympian Divyansh Singh Panwar’s record-setting achievement at the 2024 ISSF World Cup in Cairo.
Elite Performances and Competitive Atmosphere
Kiran Ankush Jadhav secured the second position in the trials, adding to the competitive atmosphere, while Sri Karthik Sabri Raj, the top qualifier, finished third. The trials, organized by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), featured Group A shooters, including the nation’s top-ranked marksmen and markswomen.
As the selection process advances, the top five Indian shooters based on national rankings as of February 29 will secure coveted spots in the NRAI’s final selection trials for the Paris 2024 Olympics. India’s shooting prowess has been highlighted by securing 19 out of the possible 24 quotas for the upcoming Summer Games, showcasing the country’s growing prominence in the sport.
Consistent Excellence Across Categories
Anish Bhanwala, the 2018 Commonwealth Games champion, demonstrated his excellence in the men’s 25m rapid-fire pistol trials, clinching victories in the third and fourth trials. His consistent performance solidifies his status as a formidable competitor, contributing to India’s Paris 2024 Olympics quota in the same category.
In the women’s 50m rifle 3 positions category, Ayushi Podder secured victory with a final-round score of 459.7 points, overcoming a seventh-place qualification position. Vidarsa Vinod and Heena Gohei secured the second and third spots, adding to the intense competition observed during the trials.
The national shooting trials not only provide a platform for athletes to showcase their talent but also exemplify India’s dedication to excellence in competitive shooting. These trials foster a culture of achievement and sportsmanship among the country’s athletes, further solidifying India’s position on the global shooting stage.
