New Delhi, May 9, 2025 – At the ongoing Khelo India Youth Games 2025 at Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range, Bihar’s shooting duo made history on Friday in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team Youth category. Divya Shri and Rudra Pratap Singh clinched the bronze medal after edging past Uttar Pradesh’s Ananya and Ansh Dabas in a nail-biting 16-14 match. This win not only marks a golden chapter in Bihar’s sporting history but also boosts the confidence of the state’s young athletes.
A Nail-Biting Encounter
Both teams entered the arena with high spirits. The match remained extremely close from the outset. Bihar gained an early edge in the first four rounds. While Ananya from the UP team showcased strong technical form, her partner Ansh seemed under pressure in the initial rounds. Divya’s performance stood out from the beginning—she consistently scored 20.8, 20.3, and 20.5 in the first three rounds. Her steady hand helped Bihar gain an early advantage. Rudra Pratap found his rhythm by the fourth round and maintained the team’s momentum through the 5th to 15th rounds.
Historic Turn in the Final Round
At one point, the score was tied at 13-13. In the 14th round, Bihar took the lead again. UP scored 20.9, but Bihar edged them with 21.0, bringing the score to 15-13. Going into the final round, UP needed two points to tie the match. Both teams scored an equal 20.6, resulting in a point each. That sealed the match at 16-14 in Bihar’s favor. As soon as the final score flashed on the screen, the Bihar camp erupted with joy.
Coach Praises the Duo’s Composure Under Pressure
Bihar’s coach remarked, “This victory is a result of hard work, discipline, and mental resilience. Divya and Rudra performed exceptionally under pressure. This is a new beginning for shooting sports in Bihar.”
Divya Shri (Shooter, Bihar):
“This medal is dedicated to every athlete in our state who dares to dream big despite limited resources.”
Rudra Pratap Singh (Shooter, Bihar):
“Facing a strong team like UP wasn’t easy. I felt some pressure in the early rounds, but Divya’s consistency boosted my confidence. As the match progressed, we began thinking like a team. In the final five rounds, I kept telling myself—this chance doesn’t come often.”
Key Highlights of Bihar’s Victory
Bihar scored a high of 21.6 in one round.
The team secured 9 points in the last 5 rounds.
