The Momma Clan

In a performance that will be etched in India’s sporting history, 16-year-old Parth Mane delivered an unforgettable victory at the ISSF Junior World Championship in Lima, Peru, clinching the gold in the Junior Men’s 10m Air Rifle event. His remarkable composure, precision, and determination led him to his first major international title, marking the arrival of a new star in Indian shooting.

The Rise of Parth Mane

Parth’s journey to the gold wasn’t without challenges. He entered the final with a qualification score of 627.7, placing him fourth. But what unfolded next was nothing short of extraordinary. With unwavering focus and nerves of steel, Parth surged ahead in the final, taking on some of the most talented young shooters from around the globe. His final score of 250.7 secured him the top spot, a moment that will inspire countless young athletes back home in India.

A Nail-biting Finale

The competition was fierce, and Parth’s closest rival, China’s Huang Liwanlin, was determined to take the title. Huang shot a score of 250.0, just 0.7 points shy of Parth’s final tally. The narrow margin highlighted the intensity of the contest, where every shot counted and the pressure was immense. However, it was Parth’s unyielding focus in the last few rounds that gave him the edge, cementing his place as the champion.

The third spot was claimed by Braden Wayne Peiser of the USA, who finished with a score of 229.1. However, one of the biggest surprises came when Sweden’s Victor Lindgren, the reigning World Champion and Paris Olympic silver medallist, finished in fourth place. Lindgren, a favourite for the gold, couldn’t match the consistency of the junior shooters in the final, further underlining the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the sport.

A Historic Team Triumph

Parth’s individual triumph wasn’t the only highlight of the championship. He, along with fellow shooters Ajay and Abhinav, combined their efforts to win the gold in the Men’s 10m Air Rifle Team event. This achievement was a testament to India’s rising dominance in shooting sports, where the young generation is proving their mettle on the global stage.

The team gold added another layer of glory to India’s successful campaign in Lima, showcasing the strength of teamwork and the immense potential of Indian shooters. With their victory, India solidified its place as a shooting powerhouse, continuing the tradition of producing world-class talent in this discipline.

The Future of Indian Shooting

Parth Mane’s victory is more than just a gold medal – it’s a glimpse into the future of Indian shooting. At just 16, he has shown the maturity, focus, and skill that will make him a force to reckon with in the years to come. His journey, from entering the competition as a dark horse to standing tall on the podium, is a testament to the grit and hard work that goes into becoming a champion.

This win will undoubtedly inspire young shooters across the country, proving that with dedication and perseverance, they too can shine on the world stage. Parth’s rise also underscores the importance of supporting and nurturing young talent, ensuring that they have the resources and guidance needed to achieve greatness.

Parth Mane’s gold at the ISSF Junior World Championship is a proud moment for India, one that will be remembered as the beginning of a promising career. His incredible performance, along with the team’s triumph, showcases India’s growing stature in international shooting. As Parth continues his journey, there is no doubt that he will be one to watch, with the potential to bring even more laurels to the nation in the future.

India’s shooting landscape is evolving, and with stars like Parth leading the charge, the country’s future in the sport looks brighter than ever.

-Dr Arwa Saifi