Rahi Sarnobat Aims for Success at ISSF World Cup and Asian Games
Rahi Sarnobat's Ambitious Goals
Indian shooting star Rahi Sarnobat is gearing up for the dual challenge of the ISSF World Cup in China and the Asian Games, following an impressive showing in national competitions. The former Asian Games Gold Medalist recently excelled in the T4 national selection trials for the women's 25m sports pistol event, showcasing her elite skills against a highly competitive field.
Navigating Selection Pressure
As the national team prepares for an intensive training phase, Sarnobat shared insights on managing the pressures of selection, the importance of team dynamics, and her mental growth. She highlighted that achieving success in India's current domestic circuit demands exceptional consistency and strict adherence to personal routines. "Securing a spot on the national team is challenging due to the competitiveness of our trials. I was pleased with my performance under pressure, which reassured me that my recent efforts are on the right track. My focus now is to maintain this momentum and continue improving," Sarnobat stated.
Team Dynamics and Experience
Sarnobat leads a strong 25m Pistol team that combines decades of championship experience with the vibrant energy of younger athletes. "It's a fantastic mix, as each generation contributes uniquely to the team. The younger shooters bring energy and fresh perspectives, while seasoned athletes help manage pressure and expectations during significant events. Being part of such a talented group is incredibly exciting," she remarked.
Challenging Domestic Circuit
India's women's 25m Pistol discipline is recognized as one of the most challenging globally. Sarnobat emphasized that training alongside elite athletes elevates international standards. "The competition level in India is exceptionally high, which is one of our strengths as a shooting nation. Training with top-tier teammates like Manu and Esha pushes everyone to perform at their best daily, fostering an environment of mutual respect and continuous improvement," she explained.
Mental Growth and Focus
Over the years, Sarnobat has transformed her competitive shooting approach, shifting from solely tracking technical outcomes to achieving emotional stability and mental calmness on the range. "Experience has shown me that results stem from hard work. I now trust my preparation and focus entirely on each shot. I've learned to embrace both successes and setbacks without emotional reactions, which enhances my decision-making and recovery when things don't go as planned," she noted.
National Camp and Aspirations
Currently, the national team is engaged in a high-performance camp, concentrating on match simulations and tactical training ahead of significant international competitions. "The national camp is vital for refining our preparation, from technical skills to physical fitness. Our immediate goal is to build consistency and confidence for the World Cup, and then carry that momentum into the Asian Games. As a team, we aim to reach our full potential," Sarnobat concluded.