Meet Sarabjot Singh: The 22 Year Old Olympic Bronze Medalist Who Creates History at the Paris Olympics 2024
Sarabjot Singh, a 22-year-old shooter from Ambala, Haryana, has etched his name in the annals of Indian sports history. He recently joined Manu Bhaker to win a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event at the Paris Olympics 2024. This victory not only added to India's medal tally but also marked Sarabjot's emergence on the global stage.
On Tuesday, Sarabjot and Manu Bhaker delivered a stellar performance to defeat South Korea's Oh Ye Jin and Lee Wonho with a score of 16-10. This win secured India's second medal at the Paris Olympics. While Bhaker made headlines for becoming the first athlete from independent India to win more than one medal in a single Olympic edition, Sarabjot became the first Indian shooter since Gagan Narang and Vijay Kumar to clinch a shooting medal at the Olympics.
Sarabjot Singh, 22, hails from Dheen village in Ambala, Haryana. He pursued his education at DAV College, Sector 10, Chandigarh. His father, Jatinder Singh, is a farmer, and his mother, Hardeep Kaur, is a homemaker. Initially aspiring to be a footballer, Sarabjot's interest in shooting was piqued during a summer camp where he observed children aiming at paper targets with pistols. This experience had a profound impact, steering him towards a career in shooting.
Despite his father’s initial reluctance due to the costs associated with the sport, Sarabjot convinced his parents to support his decision. He began his formal training under coach Abhishek Rana at the AR Shooting Academy in Ambala Cantt, part of the Central Phoenix Club.
Sarabjot first gained significant attention by winning a gold medal at the 2019 Junior World Championship. This achievement marked the beginning of a promising career in shooting.
Asian Games 2023
Sarabjot showcased his skills at the 2023 Asian Games, winning a gold medal in the 10m air pistol team event and a silver medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event.
ISSF Shooting World Cup
He continued his impressive performance at the ISSF Shooting World Cup, where he secured two gold medals, further establishing himself as a consistent performer in the international shooting arena.
National Championships
At the 65th National Shooting Championships in December 2022, Sarabjot won two gold medals in the team event held at Madhya Pradesh State Shooting Academy of Excellence in Bhopal.
Junior World Championship 2021
In the 2021 Junior World Championship, Sarabjot achieved gold medals in both the team and mixed-team events.
Olympic Glory
Sarabjot Singh made his Olympic debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Partnering with Manu Bhaker, he won a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event. The duo defeated South Korea's Oh Ye Jin and Lee Wonho with a score of 16-10, securing India’s second medal at the Games. This victory also marked India's first-ever medal in the mixed team discipline of any sport at the Olympics.
Legacy and Impact
Sarabjot Singh's journey from a small village in Haryana to the Olympic podium is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. His success has not only brought pride to his country but also inspired many young athletes to pursue their dreams despite the challenges.
- PTC PUNJABI