“In our time, in our early days, we would first think about making the finals, then playing in the next Games, but this squad is thinking of winning medals. This is a strong team and I am hopeful of a good outing from our shooters,” Narang said.
Elavenil Valarivan with Gagan Narang
Five years after the unmitigated disaster in Rio de Janeiro, Olympic medallist Gagan Narang feels the strong group of Indian shooters are primed for success in the Tokyo Games, provided they are able to remain focussed.
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A bit of luck could play a part too, according to the ace rifleman-turned-mentor, who has been there and done that, the most remarkable of which was his bronze medal at the London Olympics in 2012.
“In our time, in our early days, we would first think about making the finals, then playing in the next Games, but this squad is thinking of winning medals. This is a strong team and I am hopeful of a good outing from our shooters,” Narang said.
“Most of them have gained a fair amount of experience having participated and won at various levels including the ISSF World Cups,” he added while mentioning about the change in mindset of the current shooters.
Meanwhile, through video calls and messages, Narang imparted tips to his most successful protege, Elavenil Valarivan, before her maiden appearance at the Olympics.
During the course of her long training-cum-competition stint in Croatia with the Indian shooting team for the Tokyo Games, Narang tried to pass on useful tips to the talented shooter, who will participate alongside Apurvi Chandela in the women’s 10m air rifle event.
“Yes, we have been in touch through video calls and I have been speaking to Ela [as she is called by those who know her well] about preparations and all other important aspects for the Games,” the champion shooter added.
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