Olympics 2024: Abhinav Bindra roped in as ‘mentor’ to prepare shooting team

As part of a strategic initiative to reinvigorate India’s performance in shooting on the Olympic stage, the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has sought the unmatched expertise of Abhinav Bindra, India’s esteemed first individual Olympic gold medalist. With the responsibility of mentoring the air pistol and rifle teams, Bindra’s appointment serves as a ray of hope and a testament to his expertise in the pursuit of Olympic glory at the upcoming Paris 2024 Games.

The lack of medal success in the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Olympics has highlighted the challenges faced by India’s shooting contingent. However, with a determination to rewrite history and achieve success, the NRAI acknowledged the importance of seeking guidance from experienced individuals like Bindra, who possess a wealth of knowledge in the field.

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Despite not traveling with the team, Bindra has unwaveringly committed to mentoring aspiring marksmen until the culmination of the Paris Olympics. Through online sessions, he imparts invaluable game-time strategies, coaching methodologies, and technical insights to empower the shooters in their preparatory journey.

At the same time, the NRAI has enhanced its mentorship lineup with the addition of Mansher Singh, a four-time Olympian shooter. Assigned to guide the shotgun team, Mansher has taken a proactive approach, joining the shooters on exposure trips and competitions to offer tailored guidance.

Discussing the strategic appointments, Kalikesh Singh Deo, the acting president of NRAI, emphasized the invaluable role that Bindra plays in guiding the team through their challenges. “We have requested Abhinav Bindra to mentor our pistol and rifle teams. He graciously accepted the role and expressed great interest. Through virtual means, he has been guiding the shooters and assisting them in their preparations for Paris,” Kalikesh highlighted, underscoring Bindra’s unwavering dedication and significant contributions.

In addition, the NRAI is taking proactive measures to foster strong teamwork and prevent any internal conflicts that may have affected past campaigns. Kalikesh emphasized the importance of including Mansher Singh as a mentor for the shotgun team, highlighting the need for seamless coordination among the shooters, coaches, and administrative bodies.

Furthermore, the NRAI has made significant adjustments to its approach for the final preparatory phase. Breaking away from previous practices, the shooters will now complete their training in India, guaranteeing thorough monitoring and support from the Karni Singh Shooting Range (KSSR). This strategic change aims to meticulously track the athletes’ progress, both mentally and physically, while closely aligning their performances with optimal preparation times.

Moreover, Kalikesh addressed alterations in the pistol/rifle Olympic selection policy, emphasizing the inclusion of finals within the selection process, a departure from previous protocols.

As the countdown to the Paris Olympics begins, Abhinav Bindra’s mentorship serves as a source of inspiration, guiding India’s shooters on a path fueled by determination, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With a refreshed approach, strategic mentorship, and an unwavering dedication to success, India’s shooting contingent aims to leave their mark on the biggest stage of them all—the Olympic podium in Paris 2024.