The Thrill of Victory: Indian Athletes Shine in Shooting, Chess, and Motorsport

Shooting: Ganemat Sekhon Reclaims Top Spot in Women’s Skeet

The Indian shooting scene is abuzz with excitement as Punjab’s Ganemat Sekhon reclaimed the top spot in the women’s skeet rankings after a phenomenal performance at the national selection trials (T3) for shotgun shooters. With a remarkable score of 116 in qualification at the M.P. State Academy Shooting ranges, Ganemat proved her mettle once again, leaving her competitors in awe. Her state-mate Abhay Singh Sekhon also made a significant impact, topping the men’s skeet rankings with a leading qualification score of 120.

Although both athletes finished fourth in the finals, their impressive qualification scores demonstrate their exceptional skill and dedication to the sport. Ganemat’s 32 hits at the 40-shot mark of the 60-shot decider were a testament to her focus and poise under pressure. Abhay, too, showed remarkable composure, scoring 35 shots in the final.

The men’s event was won by Olympian Anantjeet Singh Naruka, who shot an impressive 58 in the final, leaving talented Punjab youngster Bhavtegh Gill (Q 119) in second place with 53 hits. Fellow Olympian and joint world record holder Angad Bajwa secured third place with 45 hits at the 50-shot mark.

In the women’s category, Rajasthan’s Darshna Rathore emerged victorious, shooting 50 to leave two Olympians in her wake. Raiza Dhillon won silver with 48 hits, while Maheshwari Chauhan settled for bronze with 40 hits. The trap T3 trials are set to follow from Friday at the same venue, and the shotgun shooters are currently preparing for the fourth ISSF World Cup stage scheduled for Lonato, Italy, next month.

Chess: Delhi GM Open Offers a Prize Purse of Rs 1.21 Crore

The chess fraternity is eagerly anticipating the 21st Delhi International Open Grandmasters Chess Tournament, scheduled to take place from June 7-14. With a staggering prize purse of Rs 1.21 crore and over 2,500 players from more than 15 countries participating, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Organized by the Delhi Chess Association (DCA) under the aegis of the All India Chess Federation (AICF), the Delhi GM Open is Asia’s largest classical-format chess event. The tournament will feature 20 Grandmasters in action across three rating-based sections, providing a unique opportunity for young talent to test their skills against the best in the business.

Bharat Singh Chauhan, President of the DCA, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, saying, "For two decades, the Delhi GM Open has helped build the foundation of Indian chess. This is where young talent gets tested, where norms are earned, and where future Grandmasters cut their teeth." The significant increase in the prize pool this year, with Rs 51 lakh allocated for Category A (open to rated players) and Rs 35 lakh each for Categories B and C (U-1900 and U-1700, respectively), is a testament to the growing importance of this event.

All categories will follow the FIDE Swiss System with 10 rounds per section, ensuring that participants are thoroughly challenged and engaged throughout the tournament.

Motorsport: MRF MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship 2025

The country’s top riders and teams are converging at the Madras International Circuit this weekend for an adrenaline-filled weekend of racing, marking the launch of the first round of the MRF MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship 2025. The three-day event, commencing on Friday, will feature 19 races with over 154 entries across all categories, promising non-stop action and excitement.

In the National Championship, much attention will be focused on Petronas TVS Racing riders, National champion Sarthak Chavan (Pune) and his arch-rival Chiranth Vishwanath (Bengaluru), in the Pro-Stock 301-400cc class. The two riders have a long history of intense competition, with Sarthak winning nine out of 10 races last season and Chiranth topping the other. After gaining valuable experience from participating in the Asia Road Racing Championship, they will resume their rivalry this weekend, ensuring a thrilling contest for fans.

With the stage set for an electrifying weekend of motorsport, Indian racing enthusiasts are in for a treat. The MRF MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing the best of Indian talent and providing a platform for riders to demonstrate their skills and passion for the sport.

Content originally published by sportstar.thehindu.com