Ammunition worries for Indian shooters

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Worried that stocks may not last by the time they reach Changwon, South Korea, for the world championships, India’s Asian Games shooting unit may ration ammunition.

Beginning on August 31, the world championship has 60 Tokyo Olympic qualification berths available.

For reasons of security and safety, airlines across the world have a 5kg restriction on the ammunition each individual can carry. Since the Games precede the world championships, Indian shooters are having to balance ammunition used so they can prepare for both events.

While China, Japan, Singapore and other south-east Asian countries can replenish stock en route as most of these countries are closely connected by air, Indians don’t have that luxury.

“We are sending all shooters whose competitions are over early to fly back and bring ammunition to Changwon,” said pistol coach Ronak Pandit.

“It is a very silly (airlines) rule. A 5kg restriction on ammunition means the 50m rifle and sports pistol shooters can’t carry more than 1,200 live cartridges, which is good enough for four days of training. A lot of shooters have to book ammunition in the names of their coaches, officials and support staff to ensure adequate supply,” he added.

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