Divyansh Singh Panwar watched from the sidelines at last year’s Asian Games in Hangzhou as China’s Sheng Lihao won the 10m air rifle event with a world record of 253.3 points. With only two Indian shooters qualifying for the eight-man final, Panwar trailed compatriots Rudrankksh Patil and Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar.
However, in an outstanding performance at the ISSF World Cup in Cairo on January 28, 2024, 21-year-old Divyansh Singh Panwar shattered the previous world record and secured a gold medal in the 10m air rifle category. Let’s delve into Panwar’s journey and remarkable achievement.
Rising Star from Rajasthan:
Hailing from Rajasthan, Divyansh Singh Panwar first caught attention in 2019 with multiple medals at the ISSF Junior World Cups. His journey gained momentum when he clinched a Tokyo Olympics quota place with a silver medal at the ISSF World Cup in China.
Despite high expectations, Panwar faced disappointment in the Tokyo Olympics, finishing 32nd. Following this setback, he took a break from shooting, spending time with his personal coach Deepak Kumar Dubey in Delhi and undergoing a two-week vipassana course in Rishikesh to reflect on his performance.
After the challenging period, Panwar returned to the shooting range with a refreshed mindset. He became the junior and senior national champion just four months after the Tokyo disappointment. His journey to redemption also included a return to junior-level competitions in 2022.
Under the guidance of coach Dubey, Panwar made strategic adjustments, including changes to his back-bending position and adapting to a new rifle. Additionally, the coach emphasized relaxation by incorporating non-competitive shooting sessions of 100-110 shots on off-days.
Cairo World Cup Triumph:
In the ISSF World Cup in Cairo, Panwar showcased his prowess by topping the qualification with a score of 632.4. During the final, he consistently maintained his lead, showcasing remarkable precision by scoring 10.5 or more on 18 out of his 25 shots. In the end, he secured a world record with a final score of 253.7, surpassing the previous record set by China’s Sheng Lihao.
Indian team’s rifle coach Suma Shirur emphasized Panwar’s sound technique from his junior days. Over the past year, the coaching team worked on refining technical aspects while instilling the belief of being a world-class shooter once again. Panwar’s ability to shoot with a free mind contributed to his exceptional performance in Cairo.
Looking Ahead to Paris Olympics Trials:
While Panwar was ranked fourth in the national rankings last month, he now aims to secure a spot in the top five for the upcoming Paris Olympics trials later this year. The intense competition among Indian shooters, including Rudrankksh Patil, Aishwary Singh Tomar, and Arjun Babuta, provides motivation and drives each athlete to perform at their best.
Positive Takeaway
Divyansh Singh Panwar’s journey from setbacks in Tokyo to a triumphant world record in Cairo exemplifies resilience and determination. With strategic adjustments, mental preparation, and continuous support from his coaching team, Panwar has reaffirmed his status as a rising star in the world of shooting. As he sets his sights on the Paris Olympics trials, his remarkable achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and a testament to the power of perseverance.
