Guwahati: Following a methodical performance at the ongoing ‘Khelo India University Games 2023 Ashtalakshmi’ in the northeast, that helped Arjun Singh Cheema secure a gold in the 10-metre air pistol, the 22-year-old shooter has set his target on bagging a berth for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Currently third in the pecking order to represent India in the 10-metre air pistol behind Sarabjot Singh and Varun Tomar, Cheema is vying to capitalise on the momentum gained during the KIUG 2023 in Assam’s Guwahati to make the cut. Having featured in the Indian shooting team that won the 10-metre air pistol team gold at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year, Cheema expressed his determination to secure a berth for the Paris Olympics later this year, as per a press release.
“My goal for this year has been the Paris Olympics and the victory at the Khelo India University Games gives me confidence ahead of the selections. Now my focus is on making the qualifying mark,” Cheema said.
Interestingly, Cheema finished fourth in the 10-metre air pistol in the previous edition of the Khelo India University Games held in Uttar Pradesh. However, showing a marked improvement at the Kahilipara Shooting Range in Guwahati on Sunday, Cheema displayed his resolve to top the field of shooters. Despite a seventh-place finish in the qualification rounds, he showcased great mental aptitude to lead the finals from the first round and registered a total score of 242.5 to bag the top honours, the release added.
The Asian Games gold medalist attributed the uptick in this performance, particularly since his Asian Games success, to a combination of factors.
“The previous edition of Khelo India University Games was a very good experience for me and there has been a lot of learning since then. Mentally, I am more focused and determined, as I have realised that the sport is not just result-oriented,” Cheema added.
Cheema further said that one must also be consistent with the approach and there has to be constant learning.