Abhinav to continue in 10m air rifle discipline; to do an Obama on Indian shooting

In an interview with DNA, Abhinav dispels fears of him not competing in the 10m air rifle discipline that got him the gold at the Beijing Olympics. In fact he aspires to compete in multiple shooting disciplines - and the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi and the 2012 Olympic Games in London are very much on his radar. He has also taken upon himself to bring upon change to the sport of shooting in India. He is kicking off the Abhinav Bindra Ace Public Schools (ABAPS) to nurture future Olympic heroes for the country.

On future plans…
“I am gearing up to shift gears into other shooting disciplines along with the 10m air rifle practice that got me the gold. London 2012 is my long term goal for the moment and I will reveal more when I am ready. The Commonwealth Games in New Delhi are also firmly in my sights.”

On the Government/Sports Authorities…
“Judging from what people say, one would like to believe that institutional change is in the air. Direct government or association inspired change to the sport of shooting is, however, not yet evident, at least to me.”

On bringing about change to the sport of shooting in India…
“Having said that, my feeling on the subject is that we have no time to lose. This is why I have not waited for the government, the associations to take initiative. The Abhinav Bindra Ace Public Schools (ABAPS) will be my vehicle to achieve my dream of achieving excellence. The die has been cast.”

“The future of shooting in India, as I see it is in transition but is very bright. Success spawns success. India, post winning the 20-20 World Cup is today a respected cricketing country in all formats of the game. Shooting, post my gold medal, will, to my mind not look back. At a personal level, I am not taking a chance. I will be driving the transition with my Ace Schools concept, dream and passion. Change, healthy change, is in the air…”

Update (November 20, 2008): Check this video of Abhinav Bindra speaking at an event about how he developed his focus.