Shooter Apurvi Chandela shot into the limelight when she won the 2014 Commonwealth Games gold in Glasgow.
Shooter Apurvi Chandela shot into the limelight when she won the 2014 Commonwealth Games gold in Glasgow. Within two years of her maiden international success, the 23-year-old air rifle shooter has been consistent in her showing and recently set a world record at the 2016 Swedish Cup Grand Prix.
The youngster, backed by non-profit organisation Olympic Gold Quest, is now keen to do well at the Rio Olympic Games in August this year. Excerpts:
On becoming the first Indian female to win a quota for Rio: It felt good to win the quota and I feel proud to be able to represent my country at the Olympics. It came with my first ever World Cup medal, so that makes it even more special.
On her progress and changes in training: My good run started with winning the gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Then I secured the quota for the Rio Olympics by getting a bronze at the 2015 World Cup in Korea.
Finally, I clinched silver at the World Cup final in Munich 2015. What has changed is my mental state in approaching such big tournaments and shooting is a sport where it is essential to keep one’s nerves in check. I am gaining more experience going forward.
On her 10m air rifle world record: It was a great start to the year. I want to thank OGQ for sending me for this tournament. It has given me more confidence to push myself harder towards better scores.
On the competition to get into the India team: Shooting is becoming extremely popular and the level of competition has increased over the years. But I feel it is important for me to focus on my training and technique and shooting being an individual sport, you are your greatest competitor.
On her training and competition plan this year: My plan for the year consists of a combination of training days abroad and in India under coach Stanislav Lapidus. I also intend to participate in a number of competitions abroad where I can test my techniques and gain more experience especially in finals. I am focusing on increasing my strength both physically and mentally.
On how she unwinds: By reading good books and spending time with my family. I am a nature lover, and I like taking long walks. I am also fond of animals. I have three dogs Gabbar, Shera and Phantom at home, so I spend most of my time with them.
