Reflections of a National Pistol Coach: Jaspal Rana's Journey in Shooting
A Journey of Passion and Dedication
Looking back at my extensive journey in shooting, I am filled with emotions as I reflect on my role as the national pistol coach for Team India. I feel incredibly fortunate. Starting from my early days in 1987 at the age of 10, my path has been nothing short of remarkable. Each day has been significant, and I am grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way.
Since my father introduced me to shooting and I participated in my first National competition in 1991 in Ahmedabad, I have never looked back. Shooting is not just a sport for me; it is my life. I live and breathe it. Initially, I represented India as a shooter, and now I find joy in giving back to the sport.
Coming from a middle-class family, my first major recognition came when I won a gold medal in the standard pistol event in 1994 in Milano, Italy. Achieving success at the Asian Games in Hiroshima that same year was fulfilling not just for me but for the entire nation.
People often referred to me as the face of Indian shooting during that time, but I remained grounded. For me, shooting was always about passion. I owe a lot to my two mentors, Tibor Gonczol and Sunny Thomas, who guided me throughout my career. I feel privileged to have represented India in various international competitions, and my collection of over 100 medals is a testament to that. However, I regret not winning an Olympic medal, which is why coaching Manu Bhaker for the Paris 2024 Olympics was a significant challenge. Those medals belong to Manu and India, and being part of that journey is special. I believe every medal won by our shooters is for the nation first.
As a former shooter, I always understood the honor of representing India. My respect for the national flag is genuine and heartfelt. Today, I contribute to India through the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI). I encourage young athletes to pursue their dreams with dedication.
Some may think I was naturally talented without hard work, but I emphasize that talent must be complemented by discipline and relentless effort. Some shooters have found my coaching methods tough, but I believe that instilling discipline is essential. I am happy to coach those who appreciate my approach.
Regarding the two medals Manu secured in Paris 2024, it was the result of intense preparation and hard work. The same dedication must continue. While I may not have trained as rigorously as today's athletes, I advise against shortcuts. I am currently mentoring several national shooters, including Esha Singh, and I am eager to share the knowledge I gained from my mentors.
Success at the highest level requires hard work and a methodical approach. Look at Abhinav Bindra's dedication throughout his illustrious career. I know the effort I put in to win my medals and the focus I maintained over the years. Passion and respect for coaches are timeless values that are crucial in every sport.
As India gears up for the 2026 Asian Games and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, I am excited about the possibility of returning to the USA after many years. My only Olympic experience was in 1996 in Atlanta. Reflecting on my past, I wish I had trained harder for a medal, but I am grateful for the opportunities I have had. Paris was just the beginning, and I am confident that more Indian shooters will achieve medal success in the future.
Looking back at my first Nationals in Ahmedabad, I want to express my support for India's bid to host the 2036 Olympics. This is not just a dream; it is a goal we should strive for. I take pride in India's commitment to this endeavor, with the support of figures like PT Usha and our Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
An Olympics in India is a dream worth pursuing. Let us make it a reality. Jaspal Rana, a distinguished shooter with numerous Asian and Commonwealth titles, has been honored with the Padma Shri, Arjuna, and Dronacharya awards.