The Indian shooting contingent has achieved a significant milestone at the ISSF Shooting World Cup currently being held in Hangzhou, China, while in a spectacular display of marksmanship, Indian shooters Esha Singh and Manu Bhaker secured a double podium finish in the women's 25m pistol event, bringing home both the Gold and Bronze medals. This performance has not only added to India's medal count but has also showcased the depth of talent in the country's shooting program. The achievement is particularly noteworthy as it comes on an international stage against some of the most formidable competitors in the sport.
Esha Singh's Golden Performance
Esha Singh emerged as the star of the day, delivering a clinical performance in the final of the 25m pistol event. Competing against some of the best shooters in the world, Esha maintained her composure to record a score of 40 out of 50. This exceptional score ensured her the top spot on the podium and the prestigious Gold medal. Her journey to the Gold medal was a testament to her resilience and skill. During the qualification phase, Esha had finished in 7th position with a score of 585 points. However, she managed to turn the tide in the final, outperforming those who had qualified ahead of her. This victory is another feather in the cap for Esha, who has been on a consistent run of form over the past 2 years. Earlier this year, she had already made headlines by setting a world record in the same 25m pistol event. Her recent success has now ignited high hopes for a strong performance at the 2028 Olympics, as she continues to establish herself as a world-class athlete.
Manu Bhaker Secures Bronze
Joining Esha Singh on the podium was the double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker, who secured the Bronze medal for India. Manu Bhaker had a strong start to the competition, qualifying for the final in 5th position with a score of 586 points. In the final, she continued her steady performance to ensure a third-place finish. The presence of two Indian shooters on the podium in the same event highlights the competitive edge that Indian athletes currently possess on the global stage. The Silver medal in the event was claimed by China's Youyu Zhang, who finished with a score of 37 out of 50, falling short of Esha Singh's golden mark. The competition was intense, but the Indian duo managed to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring a double medal haul for the nation.
India's Rise in the Medal Tally
The success of Esha Singh and Manu Bhaker has had a direct impact on India's standing in the overall medal tally of the ISSF World Cup in Hangzhou. India has now climbed to the 2nd position in the medal table. The country's total medal count has reached 14, which includes 6 Gold medals. Esha Singh has played a pivotal role in this achievement. Out of the 14 medals won by India so far, Esha has been responsible for 4 of them. Her individual contribution includes 1 Gold, 2 Silver, and 1 Bronze medal. This remarkable feat underscores her importance to the national team and her status as one of the leading shooters in the world today. The Indian team's performance in China continues to be a source of inspiration as they compete against the world's best, proving their mettle in every event they participate in.