Raiza Dhillon Celebrates Asian Games Bronze with Family in Shamgarh
Celebrations Erupt in Shamgarh Village
On Wednesday, the news of Raiza Dhillon securing a bronze medal at the Asian Games sparked joyous celebrations at her home in Shamgarh village, located approximately 10 kilometers from Karnal. The family shared sweets with neighbors and received congratulations from relatives and friends.
The 22-year-old skeet shooter, alongside teammates Parinaaz Dhaliwal and Maheshwari Chauhan, clinched the bronze in the women's skeet team event at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
This achievement has filled both the family and the village with pride. For Raiza’s father, Ravijit Dhillon, and her grandfather, Daljit Dhillon, it symbolizes the continuation of a family legacy in shooting that has been passed down through generations.
A Legacy of Shooting
The family's connection to firearms dates back many years. Ravijit shared that his grandfather, Gurinder Dhillon, owned several guns, which were later inherited by his father.
Ravijit remarked, "My grandfather had numerous guns, which were handed down to my father. My father introduced me to shooting, but I couldn't reach this level. I passed the same legacy to my daughter, and she has taken it much further."
Raiza's passion for shooting was ignited early on, as she first picked up an air rifle at the age of 12 and transitioned to skeet shooting at 15.
Hard Work Pays Off
Ravijit praised his daughter's dedication, stating, "She has been diligent since childhood and has worked incredibly hard to achieve this milestone."
While the family is thrilled with the bronze medal, Ravijit admitted they had aspirations for gold, noting, "She missed it by just one mark. Otherwise, the outcome could have been different. However, we are immensely proud of her success."
Raiza's Impressive Journey
Raiza's athletic career has been remarkable. She secured gold at the Junior World Championship in Lima, Peru, in 2021, followed by a silver at the Junior World Championship in Korea in 2023 and two silver medals at the Junior World Cup in 2025.
Additionally, she has claimed national and senior national titles and holds a national record with a score of 122.
Raiza’s mother, Gul Dhillon, serves as the village sarpanch, and the family plans to continue their celebrations upon her return to Karnal.
Looking Ahead to the Olympics
Raiza is set to travel to Doha, Qatar, for the upcoming World Championship, which her family views as a crucial step towards her Olympic qualification. They emphasize that her ultimate goal is to compete in the Olympics.
"She is only 22 and has much more to achieve. Her Olympic dream remains alive," her grandfather expressed.
"I am delighted that she has reached another goal, and we are optimistic she will secure a medal at the Olympics," he added.