Neeru Dhanda Shines at Asian Games 2026 with Historic Trap Shooting Golds
Neeru Dhanda's Remarkable Achievement
By Sahil Kohli
New Delhi [India], October 2: Shooter Neeru Dhanda has etched her name in history by clinching two significant gold medals in trap shooting at the Asian Games 2026, both in individual and mixed team events. She acknowledged the pivotal role of her coach, Mansher Singh, in her journey and reminisced about her modest beginnings, which began with using her cousin's equipment.
Neeru's impressive performance at the Asian Games kicked off on Tuesday when she became the first Indian woman to win an individual trap shooting gold, achieving a score of 26 in a competitive field of eight shooters. She also set a new Asian record during her Games debut in the qualification round, missing only two shots out of 30 to finish with a score of 28. Additionally, she contributed to her women's team trap silver alongside Aashima Ahlawat and Manisha Keer, scoring 118 out of 125. The following day, she and Kynan Chenai secured a historic mixed trap team gold, surpassing the previous Asian Games record of 30 with a score of 34, marking India's first gold in this event.
With three medals, including two golds, Neeru has returned to Delhi as one of India's standout athletes.
Previously, Neeru had made headlines at the Asian Shooting Championships in August last year, where she won gold in both individual and team events. She is also a gold medalist at the ISSF World Cup, having triumphed in Italy last July.
Reflecting on her success, Neeru expressed, "Words cannot capture my feelings. Winning gold for my country fills me with immense pride for myself, my family, the federation, SAI, and the Bhopal Shooting Academy. Everyone has played a part, including OGQ (Olympic Gold Quest)."
She emphasized the significant influence of her coach Mansher, who has been a constant source of motivation and support for the past six years. From providing international exposure to encouraging her health, he has been instrumental in her journey.
"My coach has been my greatest support since the grassroots level, guiding me through every challenge. He ensured I received foreign exposure and motivated me to prioritize my health, especially when I fell ill just ten days ago. He reminded me that the Asian Games would come later and focused on my well-being, which helped me prepare thoroughly," she stated.
Looking back at her beginnings, Neeru shared that she practiced shooting using her cousin Lakshay's equipment for about eight to nine months before auditioning for the Bhopal Shooting Academy, where her career began to flourish.
"Initially, I lacked my own equipment and relied on my cousin Lakshay Sheoran's gear. I stayed with him for several months, learning the sport before I tried out for the Bhopal Shooting Academy, which marked the start of my career," she recounted.
As for her future aspirations, she concluded with a smile, stating, "My goal is to win gold at the LA 2028 Olympics."