Strong Opening Day at Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship in New Delhi

The Asian Rifle/Pistol Championship New Delhi 2026 opened with high-level competition at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Ranges, as athletes from across the continent contested the first medals in the 10m air pistol events on day one of competition. Finals across senior, junior and youth categories highlighted the depth of talent in Asian shooting sport, with several nations reaching the podium.

In the women’s 10m air pistol, former mixed team world champion Esha Singh secured gold with a score of 239.8 after a strong comeback in the final stages. Shooters from Chinese Taipei, Cheng Yen-Ching and Yu Ai-Wen, delivered consistent performances to claim silver and bronze respectively. The men’s 10m air pistol title went to Uzbekistan’s Vladimir Svechnikov, who won gold with 242.0, ahead of Kazakhstan’s Valeriy Rakhimzan, while reigning world champion Samrat Rana completed the podium in third place.

Team events also featured closely contested competition, with India taking gold in the women’s 10m air pistol team event ahead of Vietnam, while Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan continued to demonstrate strong form across the individual and team standings.

Junior competitions added further highlights, with Jonathan Gavin Antony claiming the junior men’s 10m air pistol title and contributing to his team’s gold medal performance.

The opening day results set the tone for the championship, which brings together many of Asia’s leading shooters as they continue preparations for upcoming international competitions. Competition in New Delhi continues with further rifle and pistol events scheduled over the coming days as athletes compete for continental titles and valuable international experience.