Mumbai: Over 250 university shooting athletes from more than 25 countries, along with a 33-member Indian team, will compete in the FISU World University Championship Shooting, taking place in New Delhi from 9 to 13 November. This is the first time the championship has been held in India, with the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) overseeing the event and Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies (MRIIRS) as the host. The competition will occur at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range, with an opening ceremony on 8 November at the Manav Rachna campus. Athletes will compete in various shooting disciplines, including rifle, pistol, and shotgun events.
AIU president Prof Vinay Kumar Pathak stated, "On behalf of the Association of Indian Universities, I warmly welcome all international university athletes and officials to New Delhi for the FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024. Hosting this event is an honor, and we are deeply grateful to Manav Rachna and our partners for their invaluable support. We look forward to an exciting championship and the camaraderie it will bring."
"This championship is more than a competition; it represents our commitment to fostering athletic talent at the university level,” said MREI president and Manav Rachna University (MRU) and MRIIRS chancellor Dr Prashant Bhalla. “Bringing the FISU World University Championship to India is a tremendous honor, and we look forward to supporting these dedicated student-athletes as they demonstrate their skill and determination on a global stage.”
The event will feature categories such as the 10m Air Rifle, 50m Rifle 3 Position, Trap, and Skeet. Notable Olympic events include the 10m Air Pistol for men and women, Mixed Team events in Trap and Skeet, and the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol. By hosting this international championship, Manav Rachna continues to support the development of sports champions and empower the next generation of athletes.
MREI vice president and FISU-WUCS organizing committee president Amit Bhalla remarked, "The event’s impact extends far beyond sport, offering participants a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and camaraderie. Hosting such a significant event is a testament to India’s growing presence in the global sports arena and to Manav Rachna’s commitment to excellence in sports education."
Top international athletes, including Paris Olympic bronze medalist Audrey Gogniat from Switzerland and German world record holder Anna Janssen, will compete alongside emerging Indian Olympians Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Sift Kaur Samra. With world champions and rising stars in attendance, this championship aims to inspire the next generation through talent and dedication to athletic excellence.
FISU president Leonz Eder said, "As FISU continues to elevate the standards of university sports internationally, the championship provides an exceptional stage for participants to meet like-minded peers, celebrate their achievements, and create lifelong memories."
The FISU World University Championship Shooting will engage audiences worldwide, connecting young sports enthusiasts across major universities and colleges. This event underscores FISU’s commitment to providing a world-class experience and celebrating university athletes’ dedication.
Through its partnership with FISU, Manav Rachna aims to make this championship an enriching experience that fosters sportsmanship and international understanding for all participants.
