Talent spotting at sub-junior nationals

The Archery Association of India is closely monitoring the progress of archers at the 29th Sub-Junior Nationals, which is being considered an important stepping stone for a 2012 London Games medal prospect, reports Sahil Sharma.

The Archery Association of India is closely monitoring the progress of archers at the 29th Sub-Junior Nationals, which is being considered an important stepping stone for a 2012 London Games medal prospect.

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In focus is a select group of archers from Jharkhand who have the potential to make it big on the grand stage. Jharkhand has gained reputation as talent factory for the sport with the state claiming most of the top honours in recurve section on the first day of the championship in the girls’ event with the boys’ adding to their winning momentum on the second. Jharkhand’s dominance in archery may be attributed to their ancient tribal hunting instincts that have been inherited by their junior archers.

“The Jharkhand kids are the future medal prospects for the country,” said Sanjeev Singh, Indian national coach. “I am sure, one of them will win India a medal in the 2012 Games.”

Complimenting the efforts of the Jharkhand kids is the Tata Archery Academy, which has world-class infrastructure and facilities.