Did Abhinav Bindra Just Lose a Father Figure in Sunny Thomas?
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Synopsis
The Indian shooting community is in mourning after the passing of legendary coach Sunny Thomas. Abhinav Bindra, a former pupil and Olympic gold medalist, pays tribute to his mentor, calling him a father figure. Join us as we explore the profound impact Thomas had on generations of shooters and the legacy he leaves behind.
Key Takeaways
- Sunny Thomas was a pivotal figure in Indian shooting, serving as coach for 19 years.
- He was the first recipient of the Dronacharya Award in Shooting.
- Abhinav Bindra credited him as a father figure to many shooters.
- The shooting community mourns his loss, recognizing his invaluable contributions.
- His legacy continues to inspire future generations.
New Delhi, April 30 (NationPress) The remarkable shooting coach Sunny Thomas has sadly passed away at the age of 83 in Uzhavoor, located in the Kottayam district of Kerala. In a heartfelt tribute, Abhinav Bindra expressed his sorrow on social media.
Sunny Thomas, who held the esteemed position of former vice-president of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), served as the national coach for an extensive period and was the inaugural recipient of the Dronacharya Award in Shooting.
Prof. Sunny Thomas, a distinguished Dronacharya Awardee, dedicated 19 years (from 1993 to 2012) to coaching the Indian shooting team, where he shaped numerous champion shooters, including Abhinav Bindra, who made history as the first Indian to secure an individual Olympic gold in Beijing in 2008, during Thomas's tenure.
Bindra was among the first to express condolences for Prof. Thomas, referring to him as a 'father figure to generations of Indian shooters.'
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Prof. Sunny Thomas's passing. He was far more than a coach; he was a mentor, guide, and father figure to countless Indian shooters. His unwavering belief in our abilities and his tireless commitment to the sport were pivotal in India’s ascent in international shooting. He played a significant role in my formative years, and I will always be thankful for his guidance and support,” Bindra wrote.
The president of NRAI, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, has voiced the collective grief of the Indian shooting community following the loss of this legendary coach.
“This is a void that Indian shooting will find extremely challenging to fill,” stated Shri. Singh Deo. “Professor Thomas was a cornerstone of shooting, and India would not have achieved its current stature in the sport without his selfless contributions. The entire shooting community mourns, and on behalf of everyone at the NRAI, I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends,” he remarked in a statement released by the NRAI on Wednesday.
Point of View
It’s vital to recognize the immense impact Sunny Thomas had on Indian shooting. His legacy is not just in the medals won but in the lives he touched. The collective grief following his passing underscores the deep respect that the shooting community holds for him. Thomas's contributions have shaped the trajectory of shooting in India, making this a significant moment in our sporting history.
NationPress
02/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Sunny Thomas?
Sunny Thomas was a renowned shooting coach and the first recipient of the Dronacharya Award in Shooting. He significantly contributed to the development of many champion shooters in India.
What did Abhinav Bindra say about Sunny Thomas?
Abhinav Bindra referred to Sunny Thomas as a 'father figure to generations of Indian shooters,' expressing his deep gratitude for Thomas's mentorship and guidance.
What role did Sunny Thomas play in Indian shooting?
Sunny Thomas served as the national coach for the Indian shooting team for 19 years, mentoring several Olympic medalists and contributing to India's rise in the sport.
When did Sunny Thomas pass away?
Sunny Thomas passed away on April 30, 2023, at the age of 83.
What was the reaction of the NRAI to his passing?
Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, the NRAI president, expressed that the Indian shooting community is grieving and highlighted the significant void Thomas's passing has left.
