Asian Games: India men's and women's shooting teams sign off with Gold, Silver in Trap event; take tally above 40 medals

Indian gold-medal winning shooters.
Indian gold-medal winning shooters.

Highlights:

Kynan Chenai and Zoravar Singh qualified for the individual trap shooting event to take place later in the day. Manisha Keer qualified in the individual event from the women's team.

The Indian shooting contingent wrapped up the team events at the Asian Games 2023 with a Gold and Silver medal in the men's and women's trap shooting team on Sunday, October 1. The women's trap team of Rajeshwari Kumari, Manisha Keer and Preeti Rajak took home the silver medal with a score of 337, after which Kynan Chenai, Zoravar Singh and Prithviraj Tondaiman scored 361 points to take the top spot.

Meanwhile, Kynan Chenai and Zoravar Singh qualified for the individual trap shooting event to take place later in the day. Manisha Keer qualified in the individual event from the women's team.

The Indian trio of Prithviraj Tondaiman, Kynan Chenai, and Zoravar Singh Sandhu delivered an outstanding performance in the men's trap shooting event, capturing the coveted gold medal. Their collective excellence resulted in a remarkable total score of 361 during the qualifications, solidifying their position atop the podium.

Their impressive display outshone the silver medallists, Khaled Almudhaf, Talal Alrashidi, and Abdulrahman Alfaihan, who secured a score of 359. Host nation China's team, composed of Yuhao Guo, Ying Qi, and Yuhao Wang, clinched the bronze with a total score of 354. Despite Alrashidi's commendable efforts in the final rounds, he couldn't surpass the Indian team's total, sealing their triumphant victory.

Women's Trap Team's Silver Streak
The Indian women's trap shooting team, comprised of Manisha Keer, Preeti Rajak, and Rajeshwari Kumari, showcased their remarkable skills, earning a well-deserved silver medal.

Their collective efforts led to a total score of 337. However, they were narrowly edged out by China's Qingnian Li, Cuicui Wu, and Xinqiu Zhang, who set a world and games record with a score of 357, securing the gold. Kazakhstan's Mariya Dmitriyenko, Aizhan Dosmagambetova, and Anastassiya Prilepina claimed the bronze medal with a score of 336.

Individual Excellence
Manisha Keer's exceptional performance not only contributed to the women's trap team's success but also propelled her to the finals. She exhibited remarkable prowess by tying with three others at 114 points and advancing via a shoot-off. In the men's competition, Kynan Chenai (122) and Zoravar Singh Sandhu (120) displayed their exceptional skills, earning qualifications for the individual finals.

The Asian Games 2023 witnessed India's shooting contingent deliver a stellar performance, reaffirming the nation's prowess in marksmanship. These triumphs add to India's impressive medal tally and celebrate the dedication and precision of its shooters on the grand stage of international sports.