Double Gold Hero Neeru Dhanda to Lead India at Asian Games Closing
Double gold medallist Neeru Dhanda to lead India's women's contingent as flag-bearer at the Asian Games closing ceremony.
In a moment of immense pride for Indian shooting, star trap shooter Neeru Dhanda has been selected as the women's flag-bearer for India at the upcoming Asian Games closing ceremony. This prestigious honour follows her breathtaking performance in Aichi-Nagoya, where she emerged as one of the most decorated athletes of the continental event.
The 27-year-old marks a historic chapter in Indian sports, having secured two gold medals and a team silver during her stellar campaign. After returning to India following her final medal win, she is set to fly back to Nagoya on Saturday to lead the Indian contingent during the grand finale.
A Record-Breaking Run in Nagoya
Neeru's journey at these Asian Games was nothing short of legendary. She made history on Tuesday by becoming the first Indian woman to clinch the individual trap shooting gold. Her dominance was evident from the start, as she set a new Asian record during the qualification round, missing only two shots out of 30 to finish with a score of 28.
Her medal haul includes:
- Individual Trap Gold: A historic win where she topped an eight-shooter field with a score of 26.
- Mixed Team Trap Gold: Partnering with Kynan Chenai, the duo shattered the existing Asian Games record of 30 held by Qatar, scoring an incredible 34 to secure India's first-ever gold in this category.
- Women's Team Trap Silver: Alongside Aashima Ahlawat and Manisha Keer, Neeru contributed to a strong silver medal finish with a score of 118 out of 125.
From Bhopal to the Asian Stage
Neeru's ascent to the top of the podium is the result of consistent excellence. Before her triumph in Japan, she had already set the stage on fire at the Asian Shooting Championships in August last year, winning both individual and team golds. Her international pedigree is further bolstered by an ISSF World Cup individual gold medal won in Italy this past July.
Reflecting on her emotional journey and the weight of her achievements, Neeru shared her gratitude for the support system that propelled her to success.
"I do not have words to express it. The feelings are on a very high level. Winning gold for the country is a matter of great pride for me, my family, the federation, SAI, and the Bhopal Shooting Academy. Everyone has contributed, including OGQ (Olympic Gold Quest)," Neeru told ANI.
As she prepares to carry the tricolour at the closing ceremony, Neeru Dhanda stands as a symbol of India's rising dominance in the world of precision shooting.