Rajeshwari secures Paris Quota in Trap Shooting

India has secured its seventh Olympic quota for the Paris Olympics, thanks to the outstanding performance of shooter Rajeshwari Kumari. She excelled in women's trap shooting at the World Championships in Baku, becoming the second Indian woman in this discipline to earn an Olympic quota, following Shagun Chowdhary's participation in the London Olympics. Rajeshwari's remarkable composure in challenging windy conditions and a national record score of 120 over two days earned her this coveted spot.

Rajeshwari Kumari showcased exceptional skill and poise at the shooting range in Baku. During the qualification rounds, she displayed her prowess by securing a score of 73 on the first day, positioning her at fourth place. Undeterred, she continued her stellar performance on the following day, finishing in third place with a total score of 120. Her competition included Tokyo Olympics medalist Alessandra Perilli, who scored 122, and Kathrin Murche, who scored 121.

In the six-shooter final, which featured renowned shooters like two-time world champion Lin Yi-chun and London Olympics gold medalist Jessica Rossi, Rajeshwari held her ground. She managed to score 19 hits out of the first 30 targets, eventually finishing fifth but clinching the coveted Olympic quota for India. Lin Yi Chun secured the gold with 40 hits, while Rossi claimed the silver with 39 hits.

Rajeshwari's reaction

Expressing her joy and pride, Rajeshwari Kumari, aged 31, stated, "It's an unbelievable feeling. I would have liked to win a medal, but to secure an Olympic quota for the country, I am really proud." She also revealed her upcoming participation in the Asian Games, showcasing her commitment to further achievements in the field of shooting.

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Rajeshwari Kumari carries a rich legacy in the world of shooting. Her father, Randhir Singh, is a seasoned sports administrator and one of India's finest trap shooters. He participated in five Olympics from 1968 to 1984. Commenting on her achievement, Randhir Singh, also serving as the interim president of the Olympic Council of Asia, expressed his pride, saying, "It is a proud day for me and the family. She carries on a family legacy."

India's impressive quota collection

Rajeshwari Kumari's success adds to India's growing tally of Olympic quotas for the Paris Olympics. Four of these quotas were earned at the Baku World Championships. Mehuli Ghosh secured a quota in women's 10m air rifle, Akhil Sheoran in men's 3P, and Sift Kaur Samra in women's 3P. In men's trap, India already had one quota through Bhowneesh Mendiratta.

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In conclusion, Rajeshwari Kumari's remarkable achievement not only marks her own success but also adds to India's growing presence in shooting sports at the international level. Her dedication, coupled with her family's legacy, showcases the rich talent and potential within Indian shooting.