Will Olympic Champion Cernogoraz Embrace the New Shooting League?

New Delhi, June 19 (NationPress) With the inaugural edition of the Shooting League of India (SLI) approaching in Delhi, excitement is reaching new heights. The league's mission is to elevate the profile of shooting in India while offering athletes increased exposure, featuring numerous national and international stars participating in the event.

Olympic gold medalist and world champion from Croatia, Giovanni Cernogoraz, is set to join the auction for this inaugural SLI edition, marking his potential debut in a league-style shooting competition.

Cernogoraz, who boasts a remarkable career in trap shooting—including gold medals at the 2012 Olympics and 2023 ISSF World Championships as well as multiple European Championship medals—expressed his curiosity and enthusiasm for the SLI, referring to it as a “very interesting competition.”

“It is a new format, very interesting and unique,” said Cernogoraz, confirming that this will be his first experience in a rapid-paced, team-oriented league environment. “I have never participated in a league-style format before—this will be my first time. It’s a new experience for me, and the structure seems like a fascinating idea for the future.”

The SLI format is characterized as fast-paced and team-focused—a significant shift from conventional individual shooting events—adding a refreshing twist to the sport. He further emphasized the advantages of this format, noting that it can offer junior athletes invaluable experience as they compete alongside top athletes from around the world and India.

“This league is crucial for young shooters, sponsors, and media to enhance the visibility and significance of shooting. Having young talent shoot alongside players like me will inspire them greatly for their future aspirations,” he added.

Giovanni also expressed his delight about returning to India, having previously competed in the 2017 ISSF World Cup finals in New Delhi. He praised the city’s hospitality and cuisine during his past visit.

“I have competed in New Delhi before. The range is beautiful, the organization is exceptional, and I even earned a bronze medal here. I hold only positive memories of India—the food, the weather, and the people. Everyone is incredibly helpful,” he reminisced.

With a fusion of global stars and Indian talent, the intergenerational and cross-cultural format is yet another facet the champion eagerly anticipates. Despite the ongoing nature of league matches, the Olympic gold medalist remains unfazed by the format.

“It’s always a pleasure to compete with athletes worldwide—it brings good energy and connection,” he commented.

“I have a routine—before competitions, I engage in reflex and stability exercises. I enjoy running. During matches, I use a tennis ball for reflex training, and I consume only carbs and fruits—no meat during competitions. This keeps me sharp,” he explained while outlining his diet and fitness regimen, which will also aid him in adapting to the fast-paced league.

He concluded with an encouraging message for young Indian athletes, urging them to continue their hard work in the sport, stating, “Shooting is a beautiful sport. It may not be very popular, but it offers an incredible experience. It’s a challenging sport that requires intense concentration, but it’s worthwhile.”