New Delhi: Rahi Sarnobat is finally focusing on the future after having endured a terrible neuropathic pain syndrome for more than two years. After months of pain, the 25-meter pistol shooter from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, will return to an international shooting range in 18 months—her previous multi-national competition was the Jakarta Asian Championships in early 2024—when she aims at the ongoing World Cup in Munich later this week.

Since Sarnobat will be competing as an RPO (ranking points only) shooter in her 17th year as a professional shooter, she will not be eligible for medals. Nevertheless, she still has plenty to anticipate.

"For one, the feeling of a high-quality competition," she stated. "I was gone for too long, and it seems that Indian shooting has changed completely. I'll have to shoot very well in order to compete with our youngsters."

Along with veteran Divya TS, the 35-year-old will compete for a medal in RPO, while young athletes Simranpreet Kaur Brar and Esha Singh will compete against two-time Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker.

The women's pistol division, one of the most competitive disciplines in Indian shooting, has had a steady influx of young talent in recent years, making Munich a rare opportunity for Sarnobat to reestablish herself.

"I've learned from my time away from filming that I have a rather high pain tolerance, both mentally and physically. Although I recognize that I've somewhat slipped under the radar, I still think I have the ability to make a comeback, she said.

"I will aim for a score in the mid-580s range, which is what I've been achieving in practice. But more importantly, I want to regain the sense of competition in my body.”

In addition to losing 20 kg and adjusting her pistol settings "to suit my age and muscle strength," Sarnobat has also recruited a team of experts to assist her in making a comeback. To accommodate the ongoing tension she feels in the left side of her neck following her recuperation, her posture has also shifted to be more side-on. The weight of her pistol has been minimized to improve stability at the firing location, and her grip has been intentionally designed.

“I had to relearn and unlearn a lot of things. I had forgotten to remain motionless. My equipment required customization since my balance, eyesight, and muscle strength have all undergone significant changes," she said.

"I am seeing a different psychologist since it's critical for me to protect myself against negative thoughts. I'm keeping an eye out for a new coach and depending heavily on data to help me evaluate my performance. I really hope that Munich marks the beginning of a fresh and prosperous chapter for me.

Elavenil wins bronze.

Elavenil Valarivan, an Indian 10m air rifle shooter, started the campaign on Tuesday by winning bronze. After a subpar 22nd shot in the 24-shot final, the two-time Olympian retired with a score of 232.1, finishing in third position. South Korea's Eunji Kwon came in second with 252.6, while China's Wang Zifei took gold with 252.7.

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