Will Olympian Sift Kaur Samra Bring Shooting Back to the Commonwealth Games in 2030?
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Synopsis
Olympian Sift Kaur Samra is optimistic about the return of shooting as a discipline in the Commonwealth Games when India hosts in 2030. Her insights reveal the impact of such events on national sports culture and infrastructure, providing budding athletes a platform to shine.
Key Takeaways
- Shooting is expected to return as a medal event in 2030.
- National shooters have a unique opportunity to perform at home.
- Increased sports infrastructure is anticipated from hosting the games.
- Sift Kaur Samra is a leading figure in Indian shooting sports.
- Khelo India Games provide essential platforms for emerging athletes.
Jaipur, Dec 1 (NationPress) Olympian Sift Kaur Samra expresses optimism that the shooting discipline, which was removed as a medal event for both the 2022 Birmingham and 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, will return when India hosts the Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030.
According to Sift Kaur, the opportunity for national shooters to showcase their skills and potentially win numerous medals in front of their home audience is monumental.
“I am excited about India hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games, and I believe shooting will be reinstated as an event. This is an incredible chance for our national shooters to excel and earn medals. I also anticipate that this event will enhance sports infrastructure, facilitating better training for aspiring athletes,” Sift shared with SAI Media on Sunday.
“The Commonwealth Games will greatly influence our sports culture. As people come to witness our athletes compete in the stadium, it will inspire many to pursue sports, fostering a sports-oriented mindset in our nation,” the 24-year-old added.
Sift recently secured an individual silver and bronze medal in the 50m rifle 3 position at the ongoing Khelo India University Games in Rajasthan 2025 for Guru Nanak Dev University at the Jagatpura Shooting Range on Sunday.
Earlier this season, Sift solidified her dominance in the continent by clinching her fourth consecutive Asian Championship gold in the 50m rifle 3 position in Shymkent, Kazakhstan, this August. Following her impressive performance at the KIUG, her attention now shifts to the ISSF World Cup Final in Doha, Qatar, set for December 4-9.
“This year, I have participated in three World Cups, winning two individual medals and narrowly missing another. Additionally, I earned an individual gold at the Asian Championships. Presently, my focus is on the World Cup Final in Doha,” she stated.
“After that, I aim to secure a medal at the Asian Games next year, but my sights are also set on the Olympics. I typically set short-term goals and am working diligently to achieve them step by step,” she noted.
Sift, a consistent participant in various Khelo India Games since 2020, emphasized that these games serve as an excellent platform for those aspiring to pursue sports professionally.
“I have been involved in Khelo India Games since the inaugural edition of University Games in 2020. The Khelo India University Games provide a fantastic platform for athletes who take up sports later in life, particularly during their college years. It allows them to showcase their talent and compete against others. The University Games are more inclusive, offering opportunities to older participants who may have missed the Youth Games,” she concluded.
Point of View
Sift Kaur Samra's aspirations reflect a growing optimism for India's sporting future. Her confidence in the inclusion of shooting in the 2030 Commonwealth Games highlights the potential for enhanced infrastructure and cultural shifts in sports engagement. As we support our athletes, it's crucial to recognize the impact of such events on inspiring the next generation.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was shooting removed from the Commonwealth Games?
Shooting was discontinued as a medal event for the 2022 Birmingham and 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games due to various logistical and organizational issues.
What are Sift Kaur Samra's recent achievements?
Sift recently won an individual silver and bronze medal in the 50m rifle 3 position at the Khelo India University Games and secured her fourth consecutive Asian Championship gold this August.
What are Sift's future goals?
Sift aims to win a medal at the Asian Games next year while also preparing for the Olympics, focusing on achieving her goals step by step.
