Indian shooter Manu Bhaker maintained an outward composure after missing out on a medal in the women's 10m air pistol final at the Asian Games on Wednesday, but broke down completely the moment her late mentor Jaspal Rana was mentioned. Finishing in fifth position, the competition marked the end of an emotionally demanding phase during which she grieved the sudden demise of Rana, who died following a heart attack at the age of 49.
Missing the Podium and Honoring a Mentor's Teachings
Addressing questions after the medal round, Bhaker could not hold back her tears while reflecting on the invaluable career and life guidance offered by the legendary shooter. The Asian Games represented her first major multi-sport competition since Rana passed away in June. He had exerted a foundational influence on her journey from the initial stages of her shooting career.
“When a person has been a major part of your life, it stays.”
Recalling the mentor who guided her to two historic bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Bhaker explained that the lessons shared over the years do not simply vanish after a few recollections; they become permanent pillars of an athlete's life.
The Asian Games Legacy and Focus on the Process
Jaspal Rana was himself a decorated icon of the Asian Games, having clinched eight medals across three separate editions of the tournament, four of which were gold. His extraordinary campaign at the 2006 Doha Asian Games, where he captured three gold medals while competing with a severe fever, remains a revered chapter in Indian shooting folklore.
As a coach, Rana always insisted that athletes should concentrate solely on the execution process rather than worrying about the final score. Bhaker attempted to stick strictly to this philosophy during the tension-filled final on Wednesday. However, an errant shot of 8.9 significantly dented her medal hopes, eventually pushing her to a fifth-place finish.
A Champion Mindset and Guidance Beyond the Range
Bhaker described Rana as an authentic Asian champion and truly the best of the best, reminiscing about how she looked forward to competing in Japan under his tutelage. Reflecting back on the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, she felt he stood out as an undisputed master of the sport. Pausing briefly during the conversation to regain her composure, Bhaker noted that Rana's advice always held profound meaning, often transcending the sport of shooting to impart broader perspectives on life.
Gaining Confidence From Bhopal and Looking Ahead
Although fifth place left Bhaker without an individual medal in the 10m air pistol event, she emphasized that the outing provided clear reasons for optimism. She pointed out that her showing in the Asian Games final was distinctly better than the trial scores she logged during mock finals conducted in Bhopal prior to leaving for the games.
Drawing confidence from the fact that her performance showed progress relative to Bhopal, Bhaker voiced firm belief that she can continue to refine her craft in the future. She also extended heartfelt gratitude to her wider support staff, particularly acknowledging her current coach, Serbian expert Jelena Arunovic. Bhaker emphasized that while spectators only see the athlete on the firing line, an entire contingent works tirelessly behind the scenes. She commended Jelena for her immense patience and dedication, reiterating her determination to keep improving in forthcoming tournaments.
