The Hindu : Sport / Shooting : Gagan Narang in a dilemma

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Tuesday, Feb 05, 2008
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Gagan Narang in a dilemma

Sports Reporter

— Photo: V. Raju

Gagan Narang.

VIJAYAWADA: Shooter Gagan Narang is in a dilemma as he is yet to get a clear picture of how to mop up the Rs. 40 lakh required for training and participating in tournaments before the Beijing Olympics in August.

Narang will kick-off his training programme from February 10 with a 45-day camp at Sydney.

He will then take part in the Asian air rifle championship and the World Cups in China, Germany and Italy.

“I will fly back to Germany for another intensive training camp for 45 days. After spending a week in Malaysia, I will leave for the Olympics,” he said.

“I have submitted a proposal to the Central Government. I do not know how much I will be granted. I will have to fend for myself to mobilise the remaining amount. Not having sponsors is the biggest handicap for the growth of shooting, which is considered a medal-winning sport at the Olympics,” he said.

Narang will be taking part in three events at the Olympics. “I will take part in 10m air rifle, 50m rifle three positions and 50m prone. The prospect of winning a medal is high as I am competing in three events,” he said.

Narang felt that Indians were good at mind games such as chess, shooting and archery and there was need for support from both the Central and State Governments.

He also emphasised the need for more shooting ranges in Andhra Pradesh.

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