‘Youngsters in senior squad is a good sign’
NEWDELHI: Former international rifle shooter Gagan Narang keeps a low profile these days, but his 13- yearold student, Esha Singh, hogged the limelight by upsetting seasoned names to win the senior national 10m air pistol title in November. Narang has been instrumental in mentoring youngsters across the country and setting up shooting ranges. After a five-month break, the London Olympic bronze medallist in 10m air rifle is hoping to make a comeback next month during domestic trials. Training in Chennai, Narang believes the World Cup, which offers Tokyo Olympic quota places, starting February 23 at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Ranges will be a good platform for youngsters in the national squad to showcase their talent.
Excerpts:
Does it add to pressure when you compete in an event that has Olympic quota places? There will be pressure, lots of it, but a good shooter can always see it as an opportunity. It’s a big advantage when you compete on home soil as shooters train in the same environment.
Are youngsters in the national team prepared for the challenging task?
Firstly, the best have been picked. It is a positive sign that so many youngsters are making the cut for the senior squad of the World Cup. They are strong and confident, which augurs well for the future.
Your take on the World Cup? Even if top national shooters don’t win, they will gain something. That’s important. You have to stay positive and march ahead.
Several former international shooters are into coaching. The trend is growing. Ten years ago, we did not have a quality coaching system at home. A majority of the young talent was doing well were groomed by former champions in their respective fields. A good support system at the grassroots will pay off in long run.
You mean to say role of foreign coaches should be minimal? Recent performances of the young brigade suggest that our coaches should get a chance. The earlier we start the better. We should depend on foreign experts in areas where we don’t have depth. Also, foreign coaches should share their knowledge with national coaches to improve the coaching standard.
The importance of customised ammunition...
I consider it an important aspect of shooting. Globally, all top shooters follow this and I believe it complements your training. For optimum results, it has become an important tool of training. Top Indian shooters have started using customized ammo but good ammo should be available to all competitors.
Recently, national team members wanted more physios? Given that competitions have increased, the importance of fitness and recovery plays an important role. I would deal with things differently and each coach has his methods. A good coach knows how to balance hard training and recovery.