Was banning shooters from participating in Online shooting was right decision by NRAI?
Elavenil Valarivan
India’s performance in Shooting during the first two days of Olympics has not been too encouraging, as the shooting squad has failed to secure even a single medal so far. India’s biggest hope, Saurabh Chaudhary finished seventh in the Men’s 10m air pistol event, whereas, another medal prospect, Manu Bhaker failed to qualify for the finals in Women’s 10m air pistol event. None of the Indians could qualify for the finals of the Rifle Events.
Last year, a huge controversy ensued, as Shimon Sharif, international shooter, conceptualized Online Shooting to help athletes remain in shape for the Tokyo Olympics. However, National Rifle Association of India banned athletes who participated in such leagues, which involved rifle shooting.
“Had called out the stupidity,” Digvijay Singh slams NRAI
Last year, Yashaswini Singh Deswal was banned for a year after she competed in an Online event, however, the ban was uplifted keeping in mind that Tokyo Olympics would be held the very next year. However, 2008 Olympic Torch bearer, Digvijay Singh stated that there was nothing wrong with such events, and instead, rifle shooters could have benefitted from it.
American athletes participated in the Online events, as they already claimed a gold medal in Men’s 10m air rifle event on Sunday. Shaner William won the gold medal in the men’s 10m air rifle event, and he had used the online competitions to prepare for Olympics. A lot was expected from world number one, Elavenil Valarivan who failed to do qualify for finals in women’s 10m air rifle event.
“Both William & Lucas made good use of our online competitions till the very last one held earlier this month. USA shooting coach Dan Durban went on record to say that competing in these competitions was very good preparation and the results will surely show in,” said Shimon Sharif, conceptualizer of Online Shooting.
Nirmit Mehta
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