Neeru Dhanda Makes History with Asian Games Gold Medal
Neeru Dhanda’s coach, Peter Wilson, couldn’t hide his excitement after the Indian shooter achieved a remarkable milestone at the Asian Games on Tuesday. After Neeru hit her 27th target, which secured her gold medal in the women’s trap event, Wilson celebrated enthusiastically, even breaking an umbrella in his joy. Once the competition concluded, he warmly congratulated Neeru and wrapped her in the Indian national flag.
Neeru, a 26-year-old from Jind, Haryana, maintained her composure throughout the event, while Wilson’s celebration peaked with Neeru’s 28th shot, marking the end of the tension and the beginning of pure joy.
Wilson, who has a prestigious record himself, having won double trap gold for Great Britain at the London 2012 Olympics, now dedicates himself to elevating Indian trap shooting. He has already started making significant strides, as evidenced by Neeru’s historic win; she became the first Indian woman to earn a gold medal in individual trap at the Asian Games. Earlier, she made headlines by clinching an ISSF World Cup gold in Lonato, Italy, which also included a new national record.
In a prior interview with the Sports Authority of India, Neeru shared how Wilson’s guidance has been essential. She praised his detailed planning, saying, “He makes it so easy for us when it comes to execution. He is a hard-working coach.” Neeru also mentioned that she receives support from her personal coach, Mansher Singh, who helps her with technique and mental preparation.
Wilson expressed his hope that Neeru’s triumph would inspire the entire Indian shooting squad. “What I hope is that Neeru pushes the boundaries for the rest of the squad,” he noted, encouraging them to strive for glory and success.
NEERU ENDS A 48-YEAR LONG WAIT
Neeru’s victory marked a historic moment as she became the first Indian woman to win an individual trap gold at the Asian Games, ending a 48-year gap since India last secured an individual trap gold. Back in 1978, Randhir Singh won the country’s first trap gold in Bangkok, followed by Ronjan Sodhi’s win in double trap in 2010.
Not only was this Neeru’s first gold in women’s trap at the Asian Games, but it also stood as India’s first individual shooting gold at this year’s event. Earlier that day, Neeru contributed to India’s silver medal in the women’s trap team event alongside teammates Aashima Ahlawat and Manisha Keer. The trio scored a combined total of 328, with China earning gold and Kuwait taking home bronze.
Neeru entered the finals after a strong qualification round with a score of 118. Despite worsening weather conditions, she stayed calm and shot an impressive 95 out of 100 in the initial rounds. She faced the final round with poise, hitting 23 targets to ensure her place in the top eight.
The challenging weather, with rain and poor visibility, made it tough for shooters to track the flying clay targets. However, Neeru remained focused, and as her competitors faltered, she continued to excel.
After the first ten targets, Neeru held a two-point lead over China’s Sun Yunong. Although a brief interruption caused some concern, Neeru quickly regained her focus. She confidently shot all five of her final targets, finishing with a score of 28 to secure the gold.
As she hit her final target, celebrations erupted at the venue. Coach Wilson was the first to reach her, sharing in the moment before joyfully wrapping her in the Indian flag, making it a moment to remember for both of them.
This achievement is not just a personal victory for Neeru but also a significant moment for Indian shooting sports.
