In Gagan’s footsteps

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Gagan Narang’s bronze medal is likely to bolster the popularity of shooting across the country and even Kerala is hoping to reap dividends from the Olympic success and give a big push to the sport — which is still trailing here. An invite has already been extended to Gagan to visit the State.

The Shooting Sports Foundation India (SSFI), launched in June, is set to open two academies in Thiruvananthapuram next month after national coach Sunny Thomas returns from London.

Meanwhile, the State rifle association is preparing to give affiliation to clubs in Christ College, Irinjalakuda and another one at Kunnumkulam in order to increase the number of centres.

The SSFI with Prof. Sunny as president is set to begin operations at the SAI LNCPE campus and in the compound of the CRPF in Pallippuram,both in the State capital.

“Everybody is excited about the Olympic medal. It has come at the right time for us and we are sure more parents will be interested in allowing their kids take up shooting,” said Roshin Mathew of SSFI.

Though India has won medals in shooting in three successive Olympics, it is a shame that our State, like most others, has done little yet for the promotion of the sport.

“After Beijing, when Abhinav Bindra won gold, there were a lot of enquiries from youngsters. We have a good number of shooters in Palakkad, Idukki and Kozhikode,” said acting state SSFI secretary Devassia Kurian.

Except for Pathanamthitta, every other district has associations though most are inactive. The dearth of rifles is one of the biggest problems in Kerala.

“Rifles are costly, but we have planned to take that burden off the shooters in the beginning stages. We have arranged to sponsor talented shooters though it will require a lot more effort to help every single aspirant,” said Roshin.

Prof. Sunny had said earlier that he had competed with a borrowed rifle when he won gold at the 1976 national games. However, with the changing times, it is important that the problems are addressed and solutions found.

“Now the sport is getting popular and with a few more academies coming up and with some sponsorship, there will be a difference,” said Devassia.

The SSFI said they have requested Gagan to pay a visit to the State in August, though he has a tight schedule. Shooting is sensing a change in the State, and hopefully it will last.