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Shooter Gagan kick starts grass roots programme

Last Updated 21 August 2017, 19:41 IST
There are few as passionate about shooting as Gagan Narang. When not immersed in training, the Olympic bronze medallist would be mentoring youngsters. His new initiative – Project Leap – is an extension of his deep desire to set up a strong grass root system in place for shooters. The aim is to increase the Olympic medals tally.

Gagan, 34, believes if the best talent is provided the right support at the right time, the results will be quick to manifest at the international level. He already has his main project – Gun for Glory – running in many centres across the country. In Project Leap, 23 shooters (12 girls and 11 boys) from the age group of 12-20 years for air pistol and rifle have been selected through a rigorous process. The project is part of the Gagan Narang mentoring programme with Vision 2024.

“It is about taking the leap by developing talent from the grass roots itself. So we will like this programme to take us to the next level. Currently, it is only by invitation. The idea is to get as many Olympic medals by 2024 and beyond,” Gagan told DH.

“As of now we have planned training camps of 60 days in a year. It will be divided into five camps of 12 days each as in Pune as kids have to focus on their schools as well. All of them (from the age group of 12-20) train together, and in the process learn from each other. All of them are very talented. Their training is taken care of by us but they have to arrange for the travel and accommodation.”

The project has considered every factor pertaining to the training of the young shooters. “It was something which was there in my mind for some time. It took me a little over a year or so to conceive this programme. Here we ensure that every possible support which is required for a shooter to step up his game is provided- be it psychological, physical, technical, or in terms of equipment and infrastructure. A lot of emphasis has been put on nutrition of these kids, as well,” Gagan said. “They would also be performing at various levels of competitions. But we will be ensuring that training and competitions are well balanced.”

The project also involves training of the coaches. “We have three categories of coaches – foreign, assistant and regional. The foreign coaches will train the assistant coaches, who will then pass on the lessons to the regional coaches. During the last few days of the camp, all three work together. In this way a continuity is maintained,” Gagan explained.

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(Published 21 August 2017, 19:41 IST)

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