Narang bronze lifts Ronjan ahead of event

Ronjan Sodhi's morale doesn't need a boost. He is bubbling with energy and has channelised it to win a bagful of medals in the international arena.

Ronjan Sodhi's morale doesn't need a boost. He is bubbling with energy and has channelised it to win a bagful of medals in the international arena.

Ronjan-Sodhi-has-lost-25kg-to-get-into-shape-for-the-Olympics-HT-file-photo

As the Ferozepur-born double trap shooter takes aim at the Royal Artillery Barracks on Thursday, he will be aware that eyes back home will be fixed on him after Gagan Narang's bronze in the 10m air rifle.

With RVS Rathore's silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics as the benchmark, India's most consistent shotgun shooter will aim for a podium finish.

“Gagan Narang's bronze has given the Indian shooting contingent the much-needed boost. Everyone is excited and looking forward to doing well in their respective events,” said Ronjan.

Winner of successive World Cup Final titles in 2010 and 2011, Ronjan felt that not just the shooters, the entire contingent should draw inspiration from Narang's medal.

Expectations are high from the 33-year-old shotgun shooter after his remarkable run in the last three years, which has earned him six World Cup and an Asian Games medal.

“I don't take pressure, but yes, I have a responsibility to the people of my country. It motivates me.”