Sarabjot Singh reveals limited training with Manu before Paris Olympics
What's the story
Sarabjot Singh, the co-recipient of India's first Olympic medal in a mixed shooting event, has revealed that he and his partner Manu Bhaker had minimal joint training prior to the competition.
Despite this challenge, the duo successfully secured a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team shooting event at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Singh disclosed their individual training schedules and brief interactions during an interview with PUMA India.
Statement
Limited conversations with Manu
Sarabjot recalled that his conversations with Manu were usually brief and limited.
"My training was due at 9, hers was due at 12, individually. Mixed session lasted for 30 minutes, before which she trained separately, and I separately," recalled Sarabjot.
"Our conversation was usually brief and limited to 'Apna 100 per cent dena hai (we have to give our 100 per cent).'
Triumph
India beat Korea in the final
Manu and Sarabjot defeated the Korean duo of OH Ye Jin and LEE Wonho in the 10m air pistol mixed team event bronze medal match.
India eventually won the final by a 16-10 margin. The Indian duo was 10-4 ahead and and later made it 14-6.
It was in the 13th series that India shot 19.6 and claimed the medal.
Role model
Singh shares admiration for Turkish shooting icon
Singh also expressed his admiration for Turkish shooting icon Yusuf Dikec, who has been a source of inspiration for him since 2011.
He humorously stated his desire to learn about Dikec's diet due to the latter's unmatched perfection in the sport.
This revelation provides insight into Singh's influences and aspirations as a professional shooter.
Personal emblem
Singh's pistol bears mark of significant achievement
Singh's pistol is etched with 'SSINGH30,' a combination of his initials and a date marking an important milestone in his career.
The engraving commemorates his personal best at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, where he won a gold medal on September 30.
This personal emblem serves as a constant reminder of Singh's past successes and motivates him toward future victories.
Mental resilience
Singh credits meditation and 'Trataka' for overcoming setbacks
Singh has faced several setbacks in his journey, but credits meditation and a unique yogic technique called Trataka for helping him overcome these challenges.
He described the practice of Trataka as staring at a candle flame with open eyes for three minutes, followed by two minutes of visualization.
This technique has played a crucial role in enhancing Singh's mental resilience and focus in shooting.