"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
25 Sep 2023
In a sensational display of precision and teamwork, Indian sharpshooters Divyansh Singh Panwar, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, and Rudrankksh Patil etched their names in history at the Asian Games 2023 by shattering a world record in the men's 10m Air Rifle team event. Their stellar performance secured India's first gold medal of the games, marking a monumental triumph.
With an extraordinary overall score of 1893.7 points, the Indian trio surpassed China's previous record of 1893.3 points set at the World Championships in Baku. The trio showcased remarkable consistency and skill, propelling India to the top of the 10m air rifle men's team event standings in Hangzhou.
Patil, the reigning 10m air rifle world champion, and Tomar not only contributed to the team's success but also earned spots in the individual final, with Patil securing third place and Tomar standing at fifth. Panwar's exceptional performance ensured that India clinched the gold, outpacing the existing world record and leaving Korea in second place and Iran with the bronze.
With this historic victory, India added another feather to its cap at the Asian Games, reinforcing the nation's prowess in the sport of shooting. This gold medal joins the 10m air rifle team silver and Ramita Jindal's individual bronze, making it a triumphant start for the Indian shooting team at the 19th Asian Games.