The prestigious ISSF World Cup final has kicked off at the Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi, but without some of the most anticipated participants. Three top British shooters, including Paris 2024 Olympic gold medalist Nathan Hales, have missed the event due to complications with their visas. This unfortunate development has come as a disappointment for both the athletes and the fans, especially given their significant roles in the competition.
Visa Mix-Up Costs British Shooters Their Spot
The confusion regarding the visa requirements left Nathan Hales, along with fellow British shooters Matt Coward-Hawley (men’s trap) and Ben Llewellyn (men’s skeet), unable to participate. Peter Wilson, the coach of Nathan Hales and a former Olympic gold medalist himself, confirmed the news. According to Wilson, the trouble stemmed from miscommunication about the correct visa category required for their trip to India.
While one of the shooters initially applied for a tourist visa, he was later informed that he needed a business visa to compete in the World Cup. However, by the time this issue was discovered, there wasn’t enough time to rectify the situation, leading to the athletes being barred from participating.
How the Confusion Happened
It seems that a lack of clear communication played a major role in this unfortunate situation. Wilson mentioned that one of the British shooters had applied for a tourist visa, which was approved, only to be informed later by the authorities that a business visa was mandatory for participation in the competition. Attempts to reapply for the correct visa were unsuccessful due to time constraints. While Ben Llewellyn received a tourist visa, he was later asked to reapply for a business visa, which was denied.
Wilson also stated that the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) had informed the athletes about the visa requirements beforehand. However, the confusion surrounding the type of visa led to delays in the approval process. NRAI President Kalikesh Singh Deo remarked, “I think there was some confusion in the way they applied.”
A Major Blow for Team Great Britain
The absence of these top shooters is a significant setback for the British team, particularly Nathan Hales, who was expected to be a key competitor after his success in the Paris Olympics. With the withdrawal of these athletes, the competition is missing some of its most formidable contenders, making it a disappointment for fans and fellow competitors alike.
Peter Wilson expressed his regret, stating, “It’s a real shame that out of all the teams, only Great Britain is missing, and especially with the Olympic champion not present.”
What’s Next for the Event?
Despite the setback for the British team, the ISSF World Cup Final continues with top shooters from across the globe, including many Olympic and World Championship medalists. Most of the Indian team, including those preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympics, are participating in the event. However, dual bronze medalist Manu Bhaker is taking a break and won’t be competing this time.
As the event moves forward, attention will remain on the performance of other top shooters, but the absence of Nathan Hales and his fellow British teammates will certainly leave a gap in the competition.
