Sainyam Wins Silver in Women's 10m Air Pistol at ISSF World Cup

Shillong, India Jul 24, 2026 ALN: Indian shooter Sainyam clinched the silver medal in the Women's 10m Air Pistol event at the ongoing ISSF World Cup Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun here on Friday, opening India’s medal account at the competition. This victory not only highlights Sainyam's individual talent but also marks a significant achievement for Indian shooting sports on an international platform.

Delivering a composed and consistent performance in the high-stakes final, Sainyam shot a total score of 243.4 to secure her place on the podium. Her ability to maintain focus under pressure is a testament to her training and experience in competitive shooting. Such performances are crucial as they not only contribute to her personal accolades but also enhance India's reputation in the global shooting community.

This marks her second career ISSF World Cup silver medal, further reinforcing her rising consistency on the international shooting circuit. Sainyam's journey in shooting began at a young age, and her dedication has seen her transition from junior competitions to the senior level, where she has continued to excel. Her previous accolades, including being a former junior world and Asian champion, have laid a strong foundation for her current success.

In the qualification round, Sainyam demonstrated her prowess by achieving a solid score of 579, showcasing her steady precision across her series. This performance was critical in securing her a place in the final, where the stakes were significantly higher. The ISSF World Cup serves as a vital platform for shooters to gain experience and recognition, and Sainyam's ability to perform consistently under such conditions is commendable.

The Indian contingent at the ISSF World Cup consists of 36 athletes, featuring a blend of experienced Olympians and emerging talents across various disciplines, including rifle, pistol, and shotgun events. This diverse representation underscores the depth of talent in Indian shooting sports, which has been steadily growing over the years. The athletes are set to compete in both individual and mixed-team events, adding to the excitement of the competition.

Joining Sainyam in her event are established names such as Manu Bhaker and Swapnil, who have also made significant contributions to Indian shooting. The presence of these seasoned athletes alongside emerging shooters reflects a healthy competitive environment that fosters growth and excellence. The Indian shooting team's composition highlights a strategic mix of youthful energy and experience, which is crucial for achieving success in high-pressure situations.

In the rifle events, Parth Rakesh Mane, Himanshu Dhillon, Shahu Tushar Mane, and Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil will represent India in the men's 10m Air Rifle. The women's competition will feature Elavenil Valarivan, Sonam Uttam Maskar, and Sakshi Sunil Padekar, all of whom have shown promise in previous competitions. The men's 50m Rifle 3 Positions squad includes Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Niraj Kumar, and Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil, while Ashi Chouksey, Vidarsa K. Vinod, and Sift Kaur Samra will compete in the women's event.

India's pistol campaign will be spearheaded by Suruchi, Sainyam, and Esha Singh in the women's 10m Air Pistol event. This trio represents the future of Indian shooting, with each athlete bringing unique skills and experiences to the table. The men's event will feature Kedarling B. Uchaganve, Kamaljeet, and Aakash Bhardwaj, who will aim to match the performance of their female counterparts. Additionally, the women's 25m pistol team includes Manu Bhaker, Esha Singh, and Rahi Sarnobat, while Anish Bhanwala, Omkar Singh, and Bhavesh Shekhawat have been named in the men's 25m rapid fire pistol squad.

In the shotgun events, Udavir Singh Jajee, Bhowneesh Mendiratta, and Vivaan Kapoor will compete in the men's trap, while Pragati Dubey, Kirti Gupta, and Rajeshwari Kumari make up the women's trap team. The men's Skeet squad consists of Gurjoat Singh Khangura, Parampal Singh Guron, and Abhay Singh Sekhon, while Ganemat Sekhon, Darshna Rathore, and Yashasvi Rathore will represent India in the women's Skeet competition. This diverse representation across various shooting disciplines showcases the depth of talent within the Indian shooting fraternity.

India will also field teams in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team, 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team, and Trap Mixed Team events. The inclusion of mixed team events reflects a growing trend in shooting sports, promoting gender equality and collaboration among athletes. Mixed events not only enhance the competitive spirit but also provide an opportunity for shooters to learn from each other and improve their performances.

The ISSF World Cup serves as an essential stepping stone for shooters aiming for future championships, including the Olympics. As such, performances at this level are closely watched by coaches, selectors, and sports enthusiasts alike. The results can influence training regimens and selection processes for upcoming international events, making each competition critical for athletes looking to establish themselves on the world stage.

Looking ahead, Sainyam's silver medal win is likely to inspire a new generation of shooters in India, encouraging them to pursue their passion for the sport. As the nation continues to invest in its athletes and infrastructure, the potential for future success in shooting sports appears promising. With a strong showing at the ISSF World Cup, Indian shooters are poised to make a significant impact in the global arena, further solidifying India's status as a powerhouse in shooting sports.

The significance of Sainyam's achievement extends beyond her personal accolades. It serves as a reminder of the growth and development of shooting sports in India, a nation that has increasingly made its mark on the international stage. The ISSF World Cup is not just a competition; it is a platform where athletes can showcase their skills, gain valuable experience, and prepare for larger events such as the World Championships and the Olympics.

India's investment in shooting sports has been evident in recent years, with increased funding, better training facilities, and a focus on nurturing young talent. The Sports Authority of India and various state sports federations have recognized the potential of shooting as a medal-winning sport and have taken steps to support athletes through scholarships, coaching, and infrastructure development.

Moreover, the growing popularity of shooting sports in India has led to a surge in interest among the youth. Schools and colleges are increasingly incorporating shooting into their sports programs, providing aspiring shooters with access to training and competitions. This grassroots development is crucial for the long-term success of Indian shooting, as it ensures a steady pipeline of talent that can compete at the highest levels.

As Sainyam continues her journey in the sport, her success story will serve as a beacon for young shooters across the country. Her dedication, hard work, and perseverance exemplify what it takes to succeed in competitive shooting. The challenges she faced and overcame along the way resonate with many athletes striving to achieve their dreams in sports.

In conclusion, Sainyam's silver medal at the ISSF World Cup is not just a personal triumph but a significant milestone for Indian shooting sports as a whole. It underscores the potential for future success and the importance of continued investment in athlete development. As the competition progresses, all eyes will be on the Indian contingent, eager to see how they perform and whether they can build on this early success. With the right support and dedication, the future looks bright for Indian shooting on the global stage.