Girl with an eye for gold

MANU BHAKER, 16 Shooter, Jhajjar, Haryana

BECAUSE

She is the youngest Indian shooter to win gold at the ISSF World Cup held at Guadalajara this year. She won the top honours in the 10m air pistol event and also got a gold in the 10m air pistol mixed event in the same championship. Earlier, she won a gold in her maiden appearance at the Commonwealth Games held in Gold Coast. Manu also won a gold in the recently concluded Youth Olympics held in Argentina.

SECRET OF SUCCESS

There is no alternative to hard work. I make sure I never miss a training session. This is why I headed directly to the national camp to prepare for the Asia Cup after coming back from Argentina.

THE GOAL NEXT

To make a podium finish at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. But before that I will be focus on the World Cup starting next year to qualify for the Olympics.

MY ROLE MODEL

No one specific, but I draw inspiration from all the achievers and from those who have achieved success despite many difficulties in their lives.

BY THE WAY

Before being hooked on to shooting, I tried my hand at martial arts and roller skating. I even participated in the Haryana State Skating Championship.

When not training, I de-stress myself by taking to paint and brush. I love painting, be it sceneries or objects. It gives me tremendous joy.

SECOND OPINION

Dedication and focus are the main factors behind Manu’s success. Whatever she does in life, she gives it her 100 percent. I hope to see her making the country proud in the coming tournaments.

–Ram Kishan Bhaker, father