Brief
Para shooter Rakesh Nidagundi aims for gold at debut Asian Games
The athlete says he will compete with full confidence after overcoming early financial hardships.
By Felo News Desk · Published
India's para shooter Rakesh Nidagundi told PTI on Oct. 17 that he is heading to his first Para Asian Games in Japan with a "100 per cent medal expectation" and a target of gold.
Nidagundi, who helped India win its first rifle team medal at the World Shooting Para Sport World Championships in Changwon, said his recent international experience has sharpened his performance. He highlighted lessons learned from three prior competitions and noted that his training is now at its best.
The shooter, who began his shooting career in 2020 and entered competition in 2021, described early years as financially challenging. He explained that unemployment and the high cost of equipment, travel, and coaching made progress difficult until 2024.
In late 2025, Nidagundi joined the Vijayi Bharat Foundation, which he says has provided substantial support, allowing him to focus on sport without financial strain. He expressed feeling "100 per cent relaxed" and able to compete with a free mind.
Reflecting on his world‑championship medal, he called it a historic milestone, noting it was his first international medal and helped him overcome fear.
Key facts
- Rakesh Nidagundi aims for gold at his debut Para Asian Games in Japan. (news18.com)
- He helped India win its first rifle team medal at the World Shooting Para Sport World Championships in Changwon. (news18.com)
- He joined the Vijayi Bharat Foundation in late 2025, which he says eased his financial burden. (news18.com)
- Nidagundi began shooting in 2020 and started competing internationally in 2021. (news18.com)
Sources
- [1] news18.com — originally reported as “Para shooter Rakesh Nidagundi targets gold at Para Asian Games”
