New Delhi, June 19 (UNI) Olympic gold medallist and world champion from Croatia, Giovanni Cernogoraz is excited and looking forward to be a part of the inaugural Shooting League of India (SLI) which will be played later this year in New Delhi as he described the competition as a ‘new, interesting and unique’ experience.
Giovanni has enrolled for the auction of the inaugural edition of the SLI. With a decorated career in trap shooting that includes gold medals at the 2012 Olympics and 2023 ISSF World Championships, and multiple European Championships medals, Cernogoraz expressed curiosity and enthusiasm for the SLI
“It is a new format, very interesting and unique,” said the shooter, who confirmed it will be his first experience in a fast-paced, team-based league environment. “Never before have I shot in a league-style format- this would be my first time. It will be a new experience for me, and the format seems a very interesting idea for the future.”
He underlined that the League will go a long way in the development of the young shooters
“This league is important for young shooters, for sponsors, and for the media to make shooting more visible and important. Having youngsters shooting with players like me will provide them great motivation for their future ventures as well.”
The SLI format, described as fast-paced and team-centric- a departure from traditional individual shooting events- presents a fresh twist to the sport.
Giovanni also shared his excitement about playing in India again, having already participated in the 2017 ISSF World Cup final in New Delhi earlier. While talking about the experience of playing in the national capital of India, he lauded the city’s hospitality and food.
“I have competed before in New Delhi. The range is beautiful, the organization is great, and I even have a bronze medal from here. I only have good memories of India- the food, the weather, the people. Everyone is helpful.”
With global stars and Indian talent mixing teams, the cross-generational, cross-cultural format is another aspect the champion is looking forward to. Despite the continuous nature of league
matches, the Olympic gold medallist is not fazed by the format.
“It is always a pleasure to shoot with athletes from around the world- it brings good energy and connection” he said.
He also shed some light on his diet and fitness routine “I have a routine- before the competition, I do reflex and stability exercises. I like running. During matches, I work with a tennis ball for reflexes, and I eat only carbs and fruits – no meat during competitions. This keeps me sharp,”
The schedule for the SLI, which will be organised by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) is yet to be finalised but it will organised somewhere between November 20 and December 2 as the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) has allowed that window for the league.
The league will feature mixed team events across pistol (10m, 25m), rifle (10m, 50m, 3 positions), and shotgun (Trap and Skeet).
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