CHENNAI:During the Nationals last December, Gurpreet Singh captured the attention of many. Fresh after a rare break, he was in full flow against the top shooters of the country. In fact, it was his first national title (25m rapid fire) in 10 attempts. A record score of 35 — six better than his nearest rival — was the icing on the cake.
That mark matched Italian Riccardo Mazzetti’s world record (2014), but wasn’t taken into account since the event was not an international meet.
One of the many shooters from the famed Army Marksman Unit in Mhow, the Arjuna awardee is looking to build on that high. Not short on optimism, Gurpreet is set for his immediate test: the ISSF World Cup in New Delhi from February 24.
“We have been in the national camp for eight days. Preparations have been good. I’m focussed on churning out good scores on a consistent basis,” the World No 10 told Express. “It’s important to get that rhythm going. Medals will come by if one can manage that. I just want to repeat my national performance. If I can do that in the international circuit, it will be a welcome one.”
Due to the sport’s highly-competitive nature, shooters invest long hours for honing their skills. As a result, Gurpreet many a time finds himself at a loss for words while trying to explain his whereabouts to family and friends in Naushehra Pannuan, a village in Punjab that is also known as fauji mohalla (army men’s neighbourhood).
“A lot of my neighbours and family come home often when I’m not around. So, my they question me quite a lot. It’s difficult sometimes, but that’s the only way I can keep up with my training,” the 30-year-old said.
“If I’m at home, I’ll get invited over for functions and dinners. I’ll end up eating a lot if I do. That’ll make it difficult to keep a check on my fitness.”
During the Olympics, Gurpreet had enrolled for two events (10m air pistol and 25m rapid fire). This time, he’s tightening his focus. “I’m concentrating only on rapid fire this year. It will be like a break. I’m also expecting a new weapon soon. I’ll start shooting in the other category from next year.”
anmol@newindianexpress.com