Shooter Suruchi brimming with excitement ahead of maiden Asiad appearance
Twenty-year-old shooter Suruchi Phogat is preparing for her debut at the Asian Games after a successful 18-month streak. She has risen to World No. 3 and holds multiple records in air pistol and rifle shooting.
Why it matters
Highlights the rise of young talent in Indian sports and the impact of grassroots training academies.
Suruchi Phogat first held a pistol in 2019, at the age of 13. She did so because there were no rifles at the Guru Dronacharya Shooting Academy in Bhiwani; and because her father was determined to make her a sportsperson.
The 20-year-old will be one of the favourites to medal for India in 10m air pistol at the Asian Games later this month, as much because of her performance streak over the past 18 months as her ability to keep things simple. “Excitement. No nervousness, no challenge, nothing. There is only excitement inside me because it is my first Asian Games,” she said, a permanent wide smile on her face exuding an openness that only accentuates her clarity of thought.
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