Which Player of Rajasthan Won Two Gold Medals in Shooting at South Asian Games 2016?

Who is Apurvi Chandela?

Apurvi Chandela is a renowned Indian shooter specializing in the 10-meter air rifle event. Born on January 4, 1993, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Apurvi has become one of India’s most celebrated athletes in the field of shooting. Her journey from a young girl with a passion for sports to an internationally acclaimed shooter is nothing short of inspiring.

Early Life and Introduction to Shooting

Apurvi’s interest in sports began at a young age. She was an active child who participated in various sports during her school days. However, it was during her college years that she discovered her passion for shooting. While pursuing her degree in Journalism and Mass Communication at Jain University, Bangalore, Apurvi was introduced to the sport by her father, who encouraged her to take it up seriously.

Under the guidance of her coach, Deepak Kumar Dubey, Apurvi began training rigorously. Her dedication and hard work soon started paying off, and she began making a name for herself in national and international shooting competitions.

The Road to the South Asian Games 2016

The 2016 South Asian Games were a significant milestone in Apurvi’s career. Held from February 5 to February 16, the games saw participation from eight South Asian countries, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, and Afghanistan. The shooting events were held at the Kahilipara Shooting Range in Guwahati, Assam.

Apurvi Chandela was one of the key players representing India in the shooting category. Her focus and determination were evident as she prepared for the games, and her hard work culminated in an outstanding performance.

Apurvi’s Golden Triumph at the South Asian Games 2016

Apurvi Chandela competed in the 10-meter air rifle event, where she showcased her exceptional skills and composure. She won two gold medals at the games, cementing her position as one of the top shooters in the region.

1. Individual Gold Medal: Apurvi dominated the women’s 10-meter air rifle event, finishing with a score of 206.7. Her precision and consistency were unmatched, and she secured the top position on the podium.

2. Team Gold Medal: Alongside her teammates, Apurvi contributed to India’s victory in the team event. The Indian team’s combined score was enough to secure the gold medal, further highlighting Apurvi’s role as a key player.

The Significance of Apurvi’s Achievement

Apurvi Chandela’s success at the South Asian Games 2016 was not just a personal triumph but also a moment of pride for Rajasthan and India. Her achievements brought attention to the growing talent in Indian shooting sports and inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams.

Her performance at the games also served as a stepping stone for future successes. Apurvi’s dedication and hard work continued to yield results, and she went on to represent India at various international events, including the Olympics and World Championships.

Apurvi’s Journey Beyond the South Asian Games

After her stellar performance at the South Asian Games 2016, Apurvi Chandela continued to shine on the global stage. Some of her notable achievements include:

• 2016 Rio Olympics: Apurvi represented India at the Rio Olympics, becoming the first female shooter from Rajasthan to qualify for the Olympics. Although she did not win a medal, her participation was a significant achievement.

• 2019 ISSF World Cup: Apurvi created history by winning a gold medal at the ISSF World Cup in New Delhi. She set a new world record in the 10-meter air rifle event with a score of 252.9, surpassing the previous record of 252.4.

• 2020 Tokyo Olympics: Apurvi once again represented India at the Tokyo Olympics, showcasing her consistency and commitment to the sport.

The Impact of Apurvi’s Success on Indian Shooting

Apurvi Chandela’s achievements have had a profound impact on Indian shooting sports. Her success has inspired a new generation of shooters, particularly young women, to take up the sport. She has also brought attention to the importance of proper training, infrastructure, and support for athletes in India.

Her journey highlights the potential of Indian athletes to excel on the global stage, provided they receive the right guidance and resources. Apurvi’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and self-belief.

Apurvi’s Contribution to Rajasthan’s Sporting Legacy

As a proud Rajasthani, Apurvi Chandela has played a significant role in putting Rajasthan on the map of Indian sports. Her achievements have brought recognition to the state’s sporting talent and have encouraged the development of shooting as a discipline in Rajasthan.

The state government and various sports organizations have also taken steps to promote shooting and other sports, inspired by Apurvi’s success. Her journey serves as a reminder that talent, when nurtured and supported, can achieve greatness.

Lessons from Apurvi Chandela’s Journey

Apurvi Chandela’s story offers several valuable lessons for aspiring athletes and individuals in general:

1. Passion and Dedication: Apurvi’s success is a result of her unwavering passion for shooting and her dedication to improving her skills.

2. Hard Work: Behind every medal and record is hours of rigorous training and practice. Apurvi’s journey underscores the importance of hard work in achieving success.

3. Resilience: Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Apurvi remained resilient and focused on her goals. Her ability to bounce back from disappointments is a key factor in her success.

4. Inspiration for Others: Apurvi’s achievements have two player games 
    inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence.

Conclusion

Apurvi Chandela’s two gold medals at the South Asian Games 2016 were a defining moment in her career and a proud moment for Rajasthan and India. Her journey from a young girl in Jaipur to an internationally acclaimed shooter is a source of inspiration for many. Apurvi’s success has not only brought glory to the nation but has also paved the way for the growth of shooting sports in India.

As we celebrate her achievements, it is essential to recognize the importance of supporting and nurturing talent in sports. Apurvi Chandela’s story is a reminder that with passion, dedication, and the right opportunities, Indian athletes can achieve greatness on the global stage.