'Railway ticket collector' Swapnil shines in Paris

India's shooting fraternity has witnessed a historic milestone at the Paris Olympics, thanks to Swapnil Kusale's remarkable performance.

The 29-year-old shooter from Kambalwadi, Maharashtra, secured a bronze medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3P event, marking India's first-ever medal in this category.

This achievement not only underscores Kusale's personal triumph but also elevates India's standing in the global shooting arena. Kusale's journey to Olympic glory is a testament to perseverance and dedication.

From humble beginnings as a village teacher's son and a railway ticket collector, Kusale's rise to the Olympic stage is nothing short of inspirational.

His story resonates with many in India, drawing parallels with cricketing legend M.S. Dhoni, who also started his career in a modest job. Kusale’s success illustrates how passion and hard work can transform lives and fulfill dreams against all odds.

Kusale’s bronze medal holds profound significance, transcending his personal success to symbolize a major milestone for Indian shooting. This achievement contributes to India’s most impressive performance in the sport at the Olympics.

With Kusale’s medal being the latest in a string of victories, the Indian shooting team has now secured three bronze medals in Paris. This surpasses the previous record of two medals set at the 2012 London Olympics and signals the beginning of a promising new chapter in Indian shooting excellence. India’s history in Olympic shooting has been both proud and transformative.

The nation’s first medal came from Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore in 2004, followed by Abhinav Bindra’s groundbreaking gold in 2008, which was India’s first individual Olympic gold medal.

The achievements of Vijay Kumar and Gagan Narang in 2012 further established India’s potential in the sport. The Paris Olympics continue this legacy with Manu Bhaker’s bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol and the mixed team bronze by Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh, showcasing India’s expanding prowess in shooting.

Kusale’s medal is not just a personal victory but a symbol of a collective advancement in Indian sports. It reflects the evolving infrastructure, training programmes, and the increasing support for athletes in the country.

The success of Indian shooters at the Paris Games serves as a beacon of hope for future athletes and an affirmation of the country’s growing strength in Olympic sports. To build on this momentum, it's crucial for athletes from all walks of life to take up sports, especially shooting.

Embracing diverse backgrounds and experiences not only enriches the sporting environment but also ensures a broader representation of talent.

Just as Kusale's story shows, greatness can emerge from unexpected places, and by fostering an inclusive sporting culture, we can continue to make India proud on the global stage.