Apeejay student shines with three gold medals at 15th Asian Shooting Championship

Harmehar Singh Lally, a trailblazing student from Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar, recently achieved a remarkable feat at the 15th Asian Shooting Championship held in South Korea. A passionate and dedicated individual, Harmehar bagged not one but three gold medals in the individual, team, and mixed team categories, showcasing extraordinary talent and sportsmanship. Hailing from BD Semester 1, Harmehar has not only brought immense glory to his college but has also made his parents immensely proud.

His journey is not just about sporting achievements; it’s a story of resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of a dream. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the thoughts, emotions, and strategies that propelled Harmehar to this incredible success.

Read edited excerpts:

Can you share your initial thoughts and emotions when you found out about winning three gold medals at the 15th Asian Shooting Championship?

When I first found out about winning three gold medals at the 15th Asian Shooting Championship, a rush of emotions overwhelmed me. It was a surreal moment, a culmination of hard work, dedication, and the realisation of a dream. I felt immense pride not just for myself but also for representing my college and making my parents proud.

What motivated you to participate in the championship, and how did you prepare for such a prestigious event?

The motivation to participate in such a prestigious event stemmed from my deep passion for shooting and the desire to challenge myself at the international level. Additionally, shooting has always been my father’s hobby; I have seen him participating in shooting since my childhood, and I was always fascinated by this sport. A lot of hard work, focus, and dedication have been invested in my preparation for the championship. The process involved intense and rigorous training, both physically and mentally. I focused on refining my shooting techniques, studying opponents, and maintaining peak fitness to ensure I was at my best during the championship.

Winning gold in the individual, team, and mixed team categories is an incredible feat. Can you walk us through the different challenges you faced during each of these competitions?

Each category presented its unique set of challenges. In the individual competition, the pressure was entirely on me, and I had to stay focused and composed. In the team events, coordination and communication were key. The mixed team category required seamless collaboration with a partner. Overcoming these challenges demanded adaptability and mental resilience.

Can you highlight any specific strategies or techniques you employed during the championship that you believe contributed to your success?

One crucial strategy was maintaining a calm and focused mindset, especially during high-pressure moments. I also worked on perfecting my shooting fundamentals and analysing my performance after each round to make real-time adjustments. Consistent communication and trust with my teammates were vital in the team events.

How do you balance your academic commitments with your passion for shooting?

Balancing academics with my passion for shooting has been challenging but essential. Time management is crucial, and I make sure to prioritise tasks, maintain a disciplined study routine, and leverage support from my college to manage both academic commitments and shooting practice effectively.

Winning these medals not only brings glory to you but also to your college and parents. How has their support and encouragement impacted your journey in competitive shooting?

The support of my college and parents has been instrumental in my journey. Their encouragement fueled my determination, and knowing that they believed in me provided the extra motivation to push my limits. Their pride in my achievements adds a profound sense of responsibility to continue excelling.

Lastly, what message do you have for fellow students and young aspiring shooters who look up to your success?

To my fellow students at ACFA, I would say embrace your passions alongside academics. It’s challenging, but with dedication and support, you can excel in both. For aspiring shooters, believe in your abilities, stay committed to your goals, and surround yourself with a supportive network. Success in sports requires perseverance and a positive mindset. Keep pushing boundaries, and success will follow.