India asserted dominance from the beginning, with the team eliminating Iran’s first batch in just 33 seconds. Ashwini led the aggressive charge, while Meenu showcased her outstanding form, scoring multiple touchpoints to secure 50 points for India in Turn 1 alone. The relentless performance persisted across all four Turns, punctuated by a sensational 6-minute-8-second Dream Run in Turn 3 that left no doubt about the outcome.

Guided by the tactical expertise of Wazir Nirmala and crucial contributions from captain Priyanka Ingle, Nirmala Bhati, and Nasreen, the Women in Blue demonstrated both skill and strategy, firmly establishing themselves as the team to beat in the tournament.

Match Awards:

• Best Attacker: Mobina
• Best Defender: Meenu
• Best Player: Priyanka Ingle

New Delhi.The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) and the International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF) have officially announced the final squads for Team India’s men’s and women’s teams ahead of the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025. The tournament, set to take place at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi from January 13 to 19, will feature 20 men’s teams and 19 women’s teams, with 23 countries competing in this groundbreaking event.

The men’s team will be captained by Pratik Waikar, an Eklavya Award winner who debuted for India in 2016. Waikar, who has been playing Kho Kho since the age of eight, has had a distinguished career, securing gold at the 56th Senior National Championship and leading Telugu Yoddhas to the runner-up spot in the Ultimate Kho Kho League. Despite holding degrees in Computer Science and Finance, Waikar pursued Kho Kho professionally and continues to inspire with his leadership.

“I felt overwhelmed with emotion when I heard my name announced as the captain. Leading India in the first-ever World Cup on our home soil is a dream come true,” said Waikar following the announcement.

Ashwani Kumar Sharma, a seasoned coach with over 50 years of experience, will support the men’s team. Sharma has led the national team to gold at the 2019 South Asian Games and coached the Odisha Juggernauts to victory in UKK season 1. He was named Delhi’s best coach in 2014 and continues to be a key figure in the development of Kho Kho.

For the women’s team, Priyanka Ingle will serve as captain. A stalwart in the sport, Ingle has competed in 23 National Championships over 15 years. Her accolades include the Ila Award for best sub-junior player, the Rani Laxmi Bai Award, and a gold medal at the 4th Asian Kho Kho Championship in 2022-23. Ingle also balances her career in the Income Tax Department with her passion for Kho Kho.

“I am honored to lead the women’s team in the first World Cup. I will do my best to fulfill the trust placed in me and bring home the gold,” said Ingle.

Sumit Bhatia, an experienced Kho Kho coach, will guide the women’s team. Bhatia has an impressive record, with multiple medals in the Senior National Championships and golds at the 3rd Asian Championship and the 12th South Asian Games.

Speaking at the press conference, KKFI President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal remarked, “This is a historic moment for Kho Kho as we prepare to host the first-ever World Cup. The teams represent the best talent from across India, selected through a rigorous process. With Pratik Waikar and Priyanka Ingle leading the charge, we are confident of outstanding performances. This World Cup will showcase Kho Kho’s evolution from a traditional Indian sport to an international event with Olympic potential.”

Shri MS Tyagi, General Secretary of KKFI, added, “The response from 23 countries reflects the growing global appeal of Kho Kho. With world-class facilities at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, we are set to host a landmark tournament. This World Cup will not only highlight India’s organizational strengths but will also pave the way for Kho Kho to establish itself as a major international sport.”

The final squads were selected after an intensive training camp at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi in December 2024. The KKFI Selection Committee, guided by President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal and General Secretary Shri MS Tyagi, played a crucial role in finalizing the teams, with input from the coaching staff. The 60 male and 60 female players who participated in the camp were carefully assessed to select the final 15 players for both teams.

TEAM INDIA MEN’S SQUAD
Pratik Waikar (Captain), Prabani Sabar, Mehul, Sachin Bhargo, Suyash Gargate, Ramji Kashyap, Siva Pothir Reddy, Aditya Ganpule, Gowtham M.K., Nikhil B, Akash Kumar, Subramani V., Suman Barman, Aniket Pote, S. Rokeson Singh
Standby: Akshay Bangare, Rajvardhan Shankar Patil, Vishwanath Janakiram.

TEAM INDIA WOMEN’S SQUAD
Priyanka Ingle (Captain), Ashwini Shinde, Reshma Rathore, Bhilar Devjibhai, Nirmala Bhati, Neeta Devi, Chaithra R., Subhashree Sing, Magai Majhi, Anshu Kumari, Vaishnavi Bajrang, Nasreen Shaikh, Meenu, Monika, Nazia Bibi
Standby: Sampada More, Ritika Siloriya, Priyanka Bhopi

New Delhi. The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) marked a historic moment today at The Imperial Hotel, Janpath, unveiling the prestigious trophies for the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup, scheduled for January 13-19, 2025. Under the aegis of the Sports Authority Of India (SAI), the tournament will showcase 21 men’s and 20 women’s teams from 24 countries across six continents at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi.

The World Cup will feature two magnificent trophies – a blue trophy for the men’s championship and a green trophy for the women’s event. Both trophies embody the dynamic spirit of Kho Kho through their contemporary design, featuring flowing curves and golden figures. The blue trophy symbolizes trust, determination, and universal appeal, while the green trophy represents growth and vitality. Both pieces feature intricate crystal detailing that symbolizes the precision and excellence demanded at the highest level of competition.

The Federation also proudly introduced ‘Tejas’ and ‘Tara,’ a dynamic duo of gazelles serving as the official mascots for the tournament. These mascots embody the sport’s core attributes of speed, agility, and teamwork. Tejas, symbolizing brilliance and energy, and Tara, representing guidance and aspiration, are depicted in vibrant blue and orange sporting attire adorned with traditional Indian motifs, celebrating both the sport’s heritage and its modern appeal.

The KKFI has assembled an impressive roster of partners to ensure the tournament’s success. EaseMyTrip joins as the execution partner, managing travel logistics for all participants. The broadcast reach will be maximised through Star Sports Network and Doordarshan as TV broadcast partners, while Disney+ Hotstar will serve as the OTT broadcast partner. GMR Sports has come on board as the Silver Sponsor, while District by Zomato will handle ticketing services through their platform. 

Shiv Naresh will outfit the participants as the official kitting partner. The ceremonial dress partners include Blackberry and Tata Taneira. Meanwhile, adding a cultural dimension, Nayan Naveli Gallery joins as the contemporary art partner. Grant Thornton will support the tournament’s strategic framework as the strategic sports development partner, while Deloitte will serve as the knowledge partner, bringing its expertise in analytics and operational efficiency.

“We are very grateful to all our stakeholders who will be supporting the inaugural edition of the Kho Kho World Cup 2025. The World Cup will be live streamed free on Disney+ Hotstar and broadcast for free on DD Sports as well, which is a massive boost to a sport indigenous to India. This World Cup is the first step towards taking the sport to the Olympics, and with the help of all our partners, we hope to show the world the beauty of Kho Kho. Our mascots Tejas and Tara symbolize the sport’s core attributes of speed, agility, and teamwork. And the trophies — blue for the men’s tournament and green for the women’s trophy — is a mark of unity and harmony, and will set new standards of excellence at a global stage,” said Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, President of the Kho Kho Federation of India.

“This World Cup marks a watershed moment for Kho Kho, transforming our indigenous sport into a global phenomenon. The overwhelming response from 24 nations reflects the universal appeal of Kho Kho and its potential to unite diverse cultures through sport. With world-class infrastructure and support from our esteemed partners, we are confident of delivering a tournament that will set new benchmarks in sporting excellence and establish Kho Kho as a dynamic, modern sport on the international stage,” said Shri MS Tyagi, General Secretary, Kho Kho Federation of India.

The tournament promises to be a landmark event in the history of this indigenous sport, bringing together global talent and showcasing India’s sporting heritage on the world stage.

Noida. As the Pro Kabaddi League shifts from Noida to Pune, there is nothing separating the teams on the points table ahead of the final leg of the season. Despite this, one team that has shown consistency throughout is the Haryana Steelers, who will remain at the top of the points table as they head to Pune. 

In a passionate discourse on the cultural significance of kabaddi, Haryana Steelers head coach Manpreet Singh spoke about Maharashtra’s deep-rooted connection to the sport. “Maharashtra is where kabaddi’s heart truly beats,” he said as the side wrapped up the Noida leg with an impressive 42-30 win over the Tamil Thalaivas.

The coach painted a beautiful picture of Maharashtra’s sporting passion, commenting on the local fans’ love for the game. “When you go to a match in Maharashtra’s stadium, people don’t just come to watch a team – they come to support kabaddi itself,” he explained. 

“When you go to Maharashtra and play a good game in wrestling or kabaddi, it feels like it’s connected to your very bones. You can smell its essence,” he said, underlining the profound connection between the people and the game. 

His words paint a picture of a state where sporting excellence is not just appreciated, but deeply revered. “When a good player performs, whether they’re from any part of India, if they have the skill, the people of Maharashtra will open their hearts and support them,” he noted, highlighting the inclusive and passionate nature of the state’s sporting culture.

November 7, 2024. The TATA Women’s Premier League (WPL) is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season as the player retention list was officially announced, revealing the key players each franchise is betting on for the upcoming season. A total of 71 players, including 25 overseas talents, have been retained by the five franchises, forming the core squads for the much-anticipated TATA WPL 2025.

Here’s a breakdown of the retained and released players across the teams.

Delhi Capitals (DC)
Retained Players: Delhi has retained a powerful mix, including overseas stars Alice Capsey, Annabel Sutherland, Jess Jonassen, Marizanne Kapp, and captain Meg Lanning. Indian talents like Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Radha Yadav, and Shikha Pandey will continue to provide stability.
Released Players: Aparna Mondal, Ashwani Kumari, Laura Harris, and Poonam Yadav.

Gujarat Giants (GG)
Retained Players: Anchoring their team around top performers, GG retained Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Laura Wolvaardt, and Phoebe Litchfield. Prominent Indian players like Harleen Deol, Meghna Singh, and Dayalan Hemalatha remain integral to the lineup.
Released Players: Kathryn Bryce, Lauren Cheatle, Lea Tahuhu, Sneh Rana, Tarannum Pathan, Trisha Poojitha, and Veda Krishnamurthy.

Mumbai Indians (MI)
Retained Players: MI’s retention strategy revolves around star players like Harmanpreet Kaur, Hayley Matthews, Natalie Sciver, and Shabnim Ismail. Emerging talents such as Amandeep Kaur, Amanjot Kaur, and Jintimani Kalita will complement the seasoned players.
Released Players: Fatima Jaffer, Humairaa Kaazi, Isabelle Wong, and Priyanka Bala.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Retained Players: RCB holds onto stalwarts including Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, and Sophie Devine. Newer stars like Kanika Ahuja and Shreyanka Patil are also retained, reflecting a balanced approach.
Released Players: Disha Kasat, Indrani Roy, Shraddha Pokarkar, Shubha Satheesh, and Simran Bahadur.

UP Warriorz (UPW)
Retained Players: UPW’s lineup features international stars Alyssa Healy, Chamari Athapaththu, Grace Harris, and Sophie Ecclestone. Indian talents such as Deepti Sharma, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, and Kiran Navgire remain central.
Released Players: Laxmi Yadav, Parshavi Chopra, S. Yashasri, and Lauren Bell.

As WPL 2025 approaches, teams will enter the auction looking to finalize their squads with fresh talent. Fans are eagerly awaiting how these rosters will perform as the tournament continues to elevate the profile of women’s cricket on the global stage. The TATA WPL, with its mix of domestic and international stars, is set to deliver yet another thrilling season.

Chandigarh. The Punjab Kings announced their player retentions on Thursday ahead of the IPL Mega auction. The Kings have chosen Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh as their retained players.

Speaking on the same, head coach Ricky Ponting said “Prabhsimran is someone who we have invested in and have great hopes for. Shashank’s skillsets are in high demand and after his breakthrough performances, it was difficult to ignore him. We will target bringing back some of our other players at the auction.”

Shashank, who scored 354 runs in 14 matches for Punjab Kings in IPL 2024, batted at a strike rate of 164.65, expressed his delight and said, “I am grateful to the team for showing faith in me again. I am looking forward to working with Coach Ponting and to keep contributing to our team’s success.”

Talking about continuing with PBKS for seventh season, Prabhsimran said “I have always wanted to play for Punjab Kings and repay their faith in me. With the legendary Ricky Ponting at the helm, I hope to grow as a player and help the team in the hunt for glory.”

New Delhi. Sporting events like a Half Marathon provide the perfect opportunity to bring a community together, and the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is no different. From business owners and executives to professionals and students of all genders, this event stands out for its unique ability to foster community spirit and showcase leadership in action on October 20th.

A ‘pacer’ role in the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is to set aside time from their demanding schedules to guide and inspire other runners through the race and help them to the finish line. Their participation breaks down societal barriers as executives and corporate heads directly share their knowledge and experience with runners from all walks of life.

Volunteering their precious time to be pacers for the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, they are experienced runners who are also leaders in their respective fields. These corporate maestros will act as motivators as they support the participants through the challenging 21-kilometer course.

Pacers play a crucial role in a half marathon, particularly in the 21K event. They help runners maintain consistency, offer encouragement, and act as the difference between a runner completing the race or not. Their involvement goes beyond mere pacing; they shed their usual work life to become running coaches and impart valuable advice earned from years of running at such events.

Among the 21K pacers, Delhi NCR leads the pack with seven impressive representatives. This strong showing from the capital region is complemented by a diverse group of runners hailing from across India. Bangalore, Haryana, Mumbai, Tamil Nadu, Hosur, Indore, and Lucknow each contribute one pacer, highlighting the widespread enthusiasm for the event.

The all-women 10K pacer contingent showcases a similar geographical spread, albeit with a more concentrated representation. Once again, Delhi NCR demonstrates its running prowess, providing seven pacers. The team is rounded out by two runners from beyond the capital region, with Mumbai and Darjeeling each sending one pacer.

Gautam Pande is the Chief Transformation Officer at GreyOrange, a Warehouse Robotics company based in Gurgaon. But on Sunday, October 20, he will be one of the leading pacers at the 21K event. With a BUS time of 1:40, Gautam emphasizes the importance of winning the battle of the mind during such races and also speaks about how the pacers help the participants overcome any challenges.

“The role of a pacer is to provide guidance and inspiration. We help runners believe in themselves and give their very best. Much of the battle in faster half marathon times is mental, so we try to calm nerves and provide support. This support starts before the race, often a week before pre-race jitters begin. We use WhatsApp groups and other channels to communicate with our pace group, ensuring everyone stays calm, focused, and well-rested before the big day. And on race day, we are there to lead from the front. These tips from experienced runners can go a long way in helping others achieve their personal bests,” said Gautam.

As much as pacers are required in the 21-kilometer run, they are equally important for the 10-kilometer event. At the upcoming Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, the 10-kilometer event promises to be an exciting blend of endurance and speed. The 10-kilometer run will feature an all-women contingent of pacers. Nine skilled female runners are set to lead the way, setting the pace and inspiring participants throughout the course. This group of accomplished women will play a crucial role in shaping the rhythm and energy of the run.

The pacers for this event face a unique challenge: They must balance the demands of stamina and velocity in their guidance of fellow runners.

With an impressive BUS time of 55 minutes, Aarti Bardan is among the nine pacers for the 10K event. Speaking about her role as a pacer at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, Aarti said, “Completing a 10K is as challenging as completing a Half Marathon, even for experienced runners. Maintaining an even pace throughout is crucial. Consistent pacing can help runners conserve energy for a final push near the finish line, and this is where our team will help the participants. I’m looking forward to sharing this advice during the race and ensuring that everyone can finish and experience the joy of completing the 10K – a true testament to their spirit and dedication.”

Corporate Pacers (21KM)

Vijayaraghavan Venugopal, CEO of nutrition brand FAST&UP (Bangalore-1:30m Bus); Gautam Pande, CTO of IT company GreyOrange (Gurgaon-1.40m Bus); Keshav Manik Thala, an Ultramarathon runner who has got the distinction of World Champion (Haryana-1.45m Bus); Dr. Amit Ballani, a Consultant Radiologist for the Indian Railways (New Delhi-1.50m Bus); Pankaj Madaan, Head IMC at TECNO Mobile India           (Gurgaon-1.55m Bus); Jaideep Singh Ghai, a runner who also loves to swim (Mumbai-1.59m Bus); Shingo Kuriyama, Managing Director at Mani Medical India (New Delhi-2.00hr Bus); Sanjay Chhabra, he is a finance professional with 25+ years association with industries across B2B & B2C segments, (New Delhi-2.05m Bus); Hussian Mohd Patel (Tamil Nadu-2.10m Bus); Vineet Agarwal, Founder & CEO, T10Sports (Gurgaon-2.15m Bus); Thandeswaran Periyasam (Hosur-2.20m Bus); Rashmi Mohanty, CFO for a large NBFC (Gurgaon-2 hr 25m Bus); Hirday Punjani (Gurgaon-2.30m Bus); Saurabh Jain (Indore-2.35m Bus); Shekhar Chaurasia (Lucknow-2.40m Bus).           

All women 10K Pacers (10KM)

Aarti Bardan (New Delhi-55m Bus); Shivani Verma (Gurgaon-58m Bus); Ayesha Mansukhani (Mumbai-59m Bus); Dickey Palzom Bhutia (Darjeeling-60m Bus); Mekhla Maheshwari (Gurgaon-65m Bus); Maya Nair (Noida-70m Bus); Anjali Grover (Gurgaon-75m Bus); Dimple Thakur (New Delhi-75m Bus); Sangeeta Shiledar (Gurgaon-80m Bus)

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon will be flagged from the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on 20th October 2024.

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon will be telecast live on Sony Sports 1, on October 20 from 6:15 am onwards.

New Delhi. The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) announced a significant milestone for cricket enthusiasts with the introduction of the Delhi Premier League (DPL). The grand launch event held in New Delhi was marked by the unveiling of the league’s brand ambassador, the legendary former Indian cricketer, Virender Sehwag. The event also featured the presentation of the DPL trophy, the introduction of franchise owners, and the revelation of team jerseys.

The Genesis of DPL

The DDCA, a pivotal institution in Delhi’s cricketing landscape, is proud to launch the DPL, positioning it as a premier T20 cricket competition. The league aims to showcase the finest cricketing talent from Delhi and beyond, providing a platform for emerging players to display their skills while allowing seasoned professionals to continue inspiring fans. The league is chaired by Commissioner Shri Bimal Julka, a retired IAS officer, whose leadership promises a strong foundation for the league’s success.

Franchises and Their Owners

The launch event saw the announcement of the six men’s teams, which were sold for a total of INR 49.65 crore. The franchises and their respective owners are:

Men’s Teams:

• South Delhi Superstars – Acquired by Real Force Resources Pvt Ltd for INR 8.95 crore
• Purani Dilli 6 – Acquired by SISL Infotech Pvt. Ltd. for INR 8 crore
• Central Delhi Kings – Acquired by Utech Developers Pvt. Ltd. for INR 8.25 crore
• North Delhi Strikers – Acquired by Gupta Jee Tent Services Pvt. Ltd. for INR 8.15 crore
• West Delhi Lions – Acquired by Brew Force Limited for INR 8 crore
• East Delhi Riders – Acquired by Areion Finserve Pvt. Ltd. for INR 8.3 crore

Women’s Teams:

The top four bidders from the men’s franchise auction also secured the women’s teams, which include:

• South Delhi Superstars – Real Force Resources Pvt Ltd
• Central Delhi Queens – Utech Developers Pvt. Ltd.
• North Delhi Strikers – Gupta Jee Tent Services Pvt. Ltd.
• East Delhi Riders – Areion Finserve Pvt. Ltd.

Statements from Key Figures

During the launch event, Mr. Rohan Jaitley, President of DDCA, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are honoured to have Virender Sehwag, one of India’s greatest cricketing legends, as the brand ambassador of the DPL. His passion for the game and his deep roots in Delhi cricket make him the perfect choice to inspire and guide the next generation of players. His involvement will undoubtedly add tremendous value to the league.”

Mr. Jaitley also highlighted the significance of the DPL Trophy and the team jerseys, noting, “The unveiling of the DPL Trophy and the jerseys for all franchises symbolizes the start of an exciting journey. We are proud to showcase the unique identities of each team and the spirit of competition they bring to the league. This event is a celebration of Delhi’s rich cricketing heritage and a glimpse into the bright future we envision for the sport in our region.”

Virender Sehwag’s Excitement

Virender Sehwag, renowned for his explosive batting and fearless approach, shared his excitement about being appointed the brand ambassador of the DPL. He said, “I am excited to join the Delhi Premier League as its brand ambassador. Delhi has always been close to my heart, and I believe this league will provide a fantastic platform for young and talented cricketers from the region to shine. I look forward to being a part of this exciting journey and contributing to the growth of cricket in the Capital.”

The Inaugural Season

The DPL is set to run from August 17 to September 8, 2024, with all matches scheduled to take place at the iconic Shri Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The inaugural season will feature a total of 40 matches, comprising 33 games in the men’s category and 7 in the women’s.

The Path Forward

As the DPL gears up for its inaugural season, the excitement surrounding the league continues to build. The inclusion of Virender Sehwag as the brand ambassador brings a wealth of experience and inspiration to the league. Sehwag’s legacy as one of India’s most iconic cricketers, coupled with his deep connection to Delhi, positions him as a role model for aspiring cricketers. His involvement is expected to elevate the league’s profile and attract a larger audience.

New Delhi – Indian shooting sensation Manu Bhaker has once again made the nation proud by winning two medals at the ongoing Olympic Games. Under the meticulous management of IOS Sports, Bhaker’s stellar performance has solidified her position as one of India’s premier athletes on the global stage.

Bronze in 10m Air Pistol

The young shooter clinched a bronze medal in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol event, showcasing her impeccable precision and composure under pressure. Bhaker’s journey to the top was marked by a series of consistent performances, ultimately culminating in a thrilling final where she edged out competitors from China and Russia. Her victory in this event is a testament to her intense focus and the rigorous training that has become her trademark.

Bronze in 25m Pistol

Adding to her accolades, Bhaker secured an another bronze medal in the Mixed 10m Air Pistol event with Sarabjot Singh. In a closely contested final, she displayed remarkable skill and determination, narrowly missing the top spot but still ensuring a podium finish. Her ability to compete at such a high level in multiple events speaks volumes about her versatility and dedication to the sport. The bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol event highlighted her ability to remain calm under pressure and perform consistently against the world’s best.

Role of IOS Sports

Manu Bhaker’s achievements are not only a testament to her talent and hard work but also highlight the crucial role of her management team. IOS Sports, known for managing some of India’s top athletes, has been instrumental in providing Bhaker with the necessary support, training, and resources. Their strategic planning and unwavering support have enabled Bhaker to focus on her performance, contributing significantly to her success.

IOS Sports has meticulously crafted a support system for Bhaker that includes access to top-notch training facilities, expert coaching, and comprehensive career management. This holistic approach ensures that Bhaker can concentrate solely on her performance while her management team handles the logistics and other off-field concerns. The success of this partnership is evident in Bhaker’s remarkable achievements at the Olympics.

Nationwide Celebration

The nation has erupted in celebration, with fans and fellow athletes lauding Bhaker’s achievements. Social media platforms are abuzz with congratulatory messages, and the Indian government has announced plans to felicitate the young star upon her return. Bhaker’s success has not only brought joy to her fans but has also sparked a renewed interest in shooting sports across the country.

Prominent figures from various fields have also expressed their admiration for Bhaker. From Bollywood celebrities to politicians, everyone is celebrating her success. This widespread recognition underscores the impact of her achievements beyond the realm of sports.

Inspiration to Aspiring Athletes

Manu Bhaker’s Olympic triumphs serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country. Her journey underscores the importance of dedication, rigorous training, and the right support system. Bhaker’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right guidance and unwavering determination, anything is possible. Her success will undoubtedly motivate young athletes to pursue their dreams with renewed vigor and commitment.

The Road Ahead

As India celebrates her success, it is clear that Bhaker’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Her journey is far from over, and with her talent and determination, many more victories are likely on the horizon. Bhaker’s focus will now shift to maintaining her form and preparing for upcoming competitions, where she will aim to add to her already impressive medal tally.

About IOS Sports

IOS Sports is a leading sports management company in India, representing some of the country’s top athletes across various disciplines. With a focus on holistic development, IOS Sports provides comprehensive management services, including training, sponsorship, and career planning, ensuring athletes can achieve their highest potential. Their role in Bhaker’s success highlights the importance of professional management in the modern sporting landscape.

As Manu Bhaker basks in her well-deserved glory, her story remains a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with talent, hard work, and the right guidance. The partnership between Bhaker and IOS Sports exemplifies the synergy between athlete and management, leading to outstanding achievements on the global stage.

Conclusion

Manu Bhaker’s double medal win at the Olympics is a historic achievement for Indian sports. Her success story is a testament to her dedication, skill, and the unwavering support of her management team, IOS Sports. As she continues to shine on the global stage, Bhaker’s legacy will inspire countless young athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance. Her journey is a celebration of talent, hard work, and the importance of a robust support system in achieving sporting excellence.

Paris. Swapnil Kusale made history by becoming the first Indian shooter to win a medal in the 50m Rifle 3 Position (3P) event at the Olympics. As a part of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Swapnil recorded an impressive score of 451.4, securing the 3rd place in the final round. This victory marks the third bronze medal for India at the Paris 2024 Olympics, all of which have come from shooting events.

QUALIFICATION ROUND: Swapnil advanced to the final round after finishing 7th in the qualification round with a total score of 590.

Key Government Intervention (Paris cycle)

• Assistance under Procurement of Ammunition
• Domestic training with a Personal Coach

Financial Assistance (Paris cycle)

• Under TOPS: ₹17,58,557
• Under Annual Calendar for Training and Competition (ACTC): ₹1,42,69,647

Achievements

• World Championship, Cairo (2022): Finished 4th, securing an Olympics 2024 quota place for India.
• Asian Games 2022: Gold in the Team event.
• World Cup, Baku (2023): Gold medal in the mixed team event and two silver medals in individual and team events.
• World Championship, Cairo (2022): Bronze medal in the team event.
• World Cup, New Delhi (2021): Gold medal in the team event.

Background Born on August 6, 1995, in Pune, Swapnil Kusale hails from a family with an agricultural background. His journey in sports began in 2009 when his father enrolled him in the Maharashtra government’s primary sports program, Krida Prabhodini. After a year of intensive physical training, Swapnil chose shooting as his sport. In 2013, he received sponsorship from Lakshya Sports.

His early achievements include winning gold in the 50m rifle prone 3 position in the junior category at the 2015 Asian Shooting Championships in Kuwait. He also triumphed in the 59th National Shooting Championship held in Tughlakabad, outshining notable shooters like Gagan Narang and Chain Singh in the 50m rifle prone event. He replicated this success in the 61st National Championship in Thiruvananthapuram by winning gold in the 50m rifle 3 position event.

Training Base: Balewadi Stadium, Pune Birthplace: Pune