When the athletes from all over the world are gearing up for the 2012 London Games, it seems ace shooter Gagan Narang doesn’t have the liberty to practice with a free mind.
The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna recipient, who has won the Olympic quota for the country, is waiting for ammunition to arrive before he can resume his practice.
“I am short of select ammunition and had applied to the Director General of Civil Aviation for the permission to import new stock almost a month back. But I still have no idea whether I have got the sanction or not,” he told DNA.
Gagan, who practices at his academy, Gun For Glory, in Balewadi, has no other option but to train without ammo. “I will be participating in the National Championships, which start later this month. I don’t have enough ammo to do both — practice and participate — in the championship. Hence, I am having dry practice (aiming target and pulling the trigger without ammo),” he added.
Talking about the procedure of applying for ammo, Gagan said that the whole process is tedious and takes a lot of time. “There was no problem if the process was simple. But it is a tiring process, as the shooter personally has to apply for permission in Delhi. A lot of time is gone is filing the application, which ultimately hampers training,” he said.
He said he is expecting the ammo to arrive by November 13. Shooting nationals begin from November 14.
Nana Patekar likely for natls
Actor Nana Patekar is likely to take part in the National Shooting Championships that begin at the Balewadi Sports Complex from November 14. Nana has been spending time at the shooting range in Balewadi.
“I have started shooting after a long time, and have been practicing here since past one and a half month. It is going good and I am adjusting to the things I am learning here,” said the actor, who may participate in the 50m rifle prone event. Though the actor is working hard to fine tune his skills, he will take a call of participating only after he gets assurance from his shooter friends.
