Indian shooter Manu Bhaker, who recently made headlines for winning two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, has shared her next goal – earning a PhD. Manu revealed that her motivation for pursuing this academic path comes from her mother’s long-standing wish to see “Doctor” before her name.
The 22-year-old athlete has always been a force to reckon with in the shooting world, but now she’s set on combining her passion for the sport with higher education. During an event organized by the Delhi State Rifle Association (DSRA), Manu opened up about her decision to pursue a PhD in the future.
Balancing Studies and Shooting: Manu Bhaker’s New Challenge
Despite her demanding training schedule, Manu Bhaker is determined to achieve academic excellence alongside her shooting career. Having already completed her post-graduation in Public Administration, she’s now planning to take her studies even further.
Manu explained that it was her mother’s heartfelt desire that pushed her toward this new journey. “My mother always wanted me to become a doctor,” Manu shared, adding that this wish gives her the drive to succeed academically, even as she prepares for future shooting competitions.
A Well-Deserved Break After Olympic Success
At the DSRA ceremony, Manu Bhaker revealed that she is currently taking a short break from shooting. After months of intense preparation and competition, she feels it is important to rest before resuming training. She intends to return to the shooting range after her break, aiming to prepare for upcoming competitions, including the next Olympics.
Manu expressed gratitude to her coach, Jaspal Rana, who has played a significant role in her success. She mentioned that without his constant guidance and support, achieving such milestones would have been much harder.
Coach Jaspal Rana’s Contribution to Indian Shooting
Jaspal Rana, a prominent figure in Indian shooting, was also present at the event. The coach, known for his no-nonsense approach and dedication to nurturing young talent, has been instrumental in shaping the careers of several athletes, including Manu Bhaker.
During the ceremony, Rana spoke about the hard work behind Manu’s achievements and the pride he feels as her coach. He emphasized the importance of providing young shooters with the resources and opportunities they need to flourish.
“I believe that the success of athletes like Manu shows the potential of Indian shooters. It is a privilege for me to coach such talented individuals. I hope to continue helping more young talents in the future,” Rana said.
Recognition for Manu Bhaker and Other Shooting Legends
The DSRA hosted the dinner not only to celebrate Manu Bhaker’s success but also to recognize other important figures in the Indian shooting. The event, held in Vasant Kunj, saw several distinguished guests, including the coach of India’s Paralympic shooting team, Subhash Rana.
The dinner was attended by many prominent personalities from the shooting world and beyond. Notable figures such as Vikram Bhatnagar, an Asian and Commonwealth Games medalist, and Rajiv Sharma, coach of the Indian Junior Shooting Team, were present.
DSRA Ceremony: Honouring Contributions to Indian Shooting
Jaspal Singh Marwah, Vice Chairman of the DSRA, hosted the ceremony and dinner. During the event, several individuals were felicitated for their contributions to Indian shooting. Subhash Rana, who has trained Paralympic shooters to perform exceptionally at international events, was one of the key honorees. Senior lawyer Gaurav Sareen was also recognized for his support in the field.
The ceremony was filled with notable moments as athletes and coaches came together to celebrate their successes and discuss the future of shooting in India. Manu Bhaker, who has inspired countless young shooters, was seen signing autographs for children during the event, further emphasizing her role as a role model.
Looking Ahead: Manu Bhaker’s Ambitious Goals
With her focus on both shooting and academics, Manu Bhaker is setting a remarkable example for young athletes across the country. Her determination to fulfil her mother’s wish while continuing to excel in sports showcases her strong commitment and dedication.
As Manu prepares to return to training after her break, it’s clear that she’s not only aiming for more Olympic success but also to achieve her dream of earning a PhD. Her journey continues to inspire many, and her future endeavors are eagerly anticipated by her fans and the shooting community.
