As the scorching Indian summer subsides, India's elite shooters embark on a crucial stage of their Olympic preparations at the ISSF World Cup (Pistol/Rifle) in Munich, Germany, commencing on Saturday.
Despite the grueling month-long trials in New Delhi and Bhopal, several shooters initially expressed reluctance to participate in the World Cup, citing fatigue and a desire to focus on their Olympic preparations. However, the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) made participation mandatory and reportedly resolved the contentious issue of personal coaches, paving the way for the Paris-bound marksmen to gauge their progress.
The issue of personal coaches had been a major point of contention, with shooters seeking greater flexibility in their training arrangements. While the matter appears to have been temporarily resolved, many personal coaches will not accompany their wards to Munich due to the late notice.
The World Cup will also serve as a litmus test for shooters who have displaced the original Paris quota winners in the national squad through a series of Olympic Selection Trials (OSTs). The federation will be keen to assess the performances of these shooters, including rookie Army man Sandeep Singh, who has emerged as a surprise contender in the 10m air rifle event.
The NRAI faces a dilemma in selecting the Paris-bound team, as it must strictly adhere to its Olympic selection policy based on the OSTs. However, several Olympic quota winners who lost out to their compatriots during the trials have appealed to be considered for Paris, creating an unprecedented situation.
The NRAI is expected to announce the Olympic contingent during the World Cup, a process that has been delayed. This delay has hindered shooters' ability to fine-tune their preparations, including critical ammunition testing.
The World Cup in Munich provides an opportunity for shooters to connect with European manufacturers and test the ammunition they intend to use at the Olympics. The event will commence with men's and women's 10m air rifle, with the finals scheduled for Monday.
Tags: #ISSFWC, #Shooting, #Paris2024, #IndianShooters, #OlympicPreparations
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