NRAI Commemorates Abhinav Bindra’s ‘Closure’ to a Prolific Career

ISSF Academy Accredited Training Centre Launched on the Occasion

New Delhi, Sep 04, 2016: The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), governing body for the sport of Shooting in the country, today commemorated the glittering career of India’s only individual Olympic Gold medalist, champion shooter Abhinav Bindra, through a gala ceremony at a hotel in the National Capital Region. A first of its kind International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Academy accredited Training Centre, was also launched on the occasion. The ISSF Academy is the official sport development wing of the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF), the world governing body of the sport and runs all of their coaching and sports development related courses.

Speaking on the occassion, Shri Raninder Singh, President, NRAI, said, “If any kid today comes up to me and says how to become a good shooter, all I have to say is watch Abhinav train. The focus, the dedication, the professionalism that he brings to the sport is truly one to emulate. It is both a sad and happy day for the Shooting family. Sad because we will not see Abhinav pick up a gun again to represent India and happy because perhaps this is just the beginning of an even greater professional career. Abhinav is in totality the true youth icon of this country.”

Abhinav Bindra appeared as assured as ever while addressing the audience among saying among other things, “Shooting has developed tremendously as a sport in India. The NRAI has scope to be not just the best sporting federation in India but also a model federation in the world. There has been unstinted support from the Government of India and Sports Authority of India. I have never thought of myself as the most talented. My talent lies in my hard work. My performance at Rio gave me closure. I did my best and could not have done any more. I have given my all to Shooting and have got back more than possible.”

There was a sizeable gathering to celebrate the momentous occasion. Among others present were Olympians Manavjit Singh Sandhu, Apurvi Chandela, Sanjeev Rajput, Ronjon Sodhi, Mairaj Ahmed Khan, Morad Ali Khan and Mansher Singh. Also present were Raja Randhir Singh, member, International Olympic Committee, Abhinav’s proud parents and sister.