Not right time for sport, but prepared for Games: Bhaker

The pandemic has cast serious doubts over the upcoming Olympic Games but the 18-year-old is currently not thinking about things that are beyond her control. “Trials and events should be postponed in current situation as there are other very important things for the world to deal with,” Bhaker said.

She said the shooters are abiding by the protocols and guidelines issued by the authorities concerned. The pistol ace was one of the few shooters who participated in a trial organised not long ago by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI).

The trial was arranged to allow the shooters to register their scores after the postponement of the New Delhi ISSF World Cup and the Indian team’s pull-out from the Cyprus World Cup. “Camp situation was fine as only a few shooters were there, there was no large gathering and it was for three days.” Asked about the Olympics Games that is shrouded in uncertainty, Bhaker said she will look to carry on with her routine that is part of her preparation. “I am relaxed at home. The current situation doesn’t affect my preparation and mindset. The Olympics, whenever it happens, is huge, so we need to be prepared “Shooting is very competitive now. It is evident from the scores,” the Commonwealth Games and Youth Olympics gold medallist added. Bhaker, who secured an Olympic quota for India in the women’s 10m air pistol event, enjoyed a successful season last year where she won five World Cup gold medals.