Zoravar Singh Sandhu Wins Historic Bronze at ISSF Shotgun World Championship 2025 in Athens

48-Year-Old Indian Shooter Scripts History with Bronze in Men’s Trap; Only India’s Third Medal Ever in the Event

Veteran Indian shooter Zoravar Singh Sandhu made history by clinching the bronze medal in the men’s trap event at the ISSF World Championship Shotgun 2025, held in Athens, Greece. Competing in challenging weather and lighting conditions, the 48-year-old from Punjab hit 31 out of 50 targets in the final to secure a podium finish — placing behind Croatia’s Josip Glasnovic and Spain’s Andres Garcia.

This is India’s third-ever medal in men’s trap at the ISSF World Championships — after Dr. Karni Singh’s silver (Cairo 1962) and Manavjit Singh Sandhu’s gold (Zagreb 2006).

Zoravar Singh Sandhu’s Remarkable Journey to Bronze

Zoravar, who first represented India at a senior world championship in 1998, produced a stellar performance throughout qualification, scoring 122 hits and winning a shoot-off to enter the final. Despite having the lowest bib number, he held his composure in the tense final, adapting to changing light and rain conditions to claim a historic medal.

“I see it just as a start. The youngsters in the team keep me motivated. There’s fire inside me — I don’t want to fall behind,” said Sandhu, reflecting on his journey after the win.

The Punjab shooter previously won a bronze at the 2007 ISSF World Cup in Changwon and remains a multiple-time national champion.

Coach Peter Wilson and NRAI Laud the Historic Feat

National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) President Kalikesh Singh Deo praised Sandhu’s victory, calling it a historic moment for Indian shooting.

“Zoravar’s perseverance and the guidance of coach Peter Wilson’s team have paid off,” said Deo.

Peter Wilson, London Olympics double trap champion and India’s foreign coach, also hailed Sandhu’s determination and longevity:

“I first met Zoravar in 2006. His discipline and unique technique set him apart. To see him win this medal after years of dedication is phenomenal. He’s proof that age is just a number in shooting.”

Unique Technique and Tactical Brilliance

Zoravar’s shooting style has long been a topic of discussion among experts. Unlike most shooters, he lifts the shotgun from the side and aims for just 1–2 seconds before shooting. Wilson explained that this method reduces overthinking and enhances instinctive accuracy — a trait that proved invaluable under Athens’ unpredictable weather conditions.

During the final, Sandhu missed only a few targets despite rain and variable lighting, choosing to shoot without goggles for better visibility — a tactical decision that helped him stay consistent when others faltered.

India’s Legacy in Men’s Trap Shooting

India’s success in men’s trap shooting has been rare but significant:

• Dr. Karni Singh – Silver (Cairo, 1962)

• Manavjit Singh Sandhu – Gold (Zagreb, 2006)

• Zoravar Singh Sandhu – Bronze (Athens, 2025)

This bronze medal not only adds to India’s tally but also reaffirms the nation’s resurgence in shotgun disciplines on the global stage.

Training, Future Goals, and Olympic Dreams

In preparation for the World Championships, Sandhu trained in Limassol, Cyprus, along with the Indian shotgun team, to simulate conditions similar to Greece. After his return home, he will compete in the National Championships, with his sights now set on qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

“Yes, the target is an Olympic medal. But for now, I’ll enjoy this moment and keep working hard,” Sandhu said, adding that he draws inspiration from Australian legend Michael Diamond, a two-time Olympic champion.