Shooting Competition
Neeru and Bhowneesh Lead National Shotgun Trial 4 in Punjab
Top Indian shooters maintain lead in trap event as competition narrows ahead of finals
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Bhucho, Punjab, India
BHCHO, Punjab Asian champion Neeru Dhanda and Asian silver medalist Bhowneesh Mendiratta continued to dominate the National Selection Shotgun Trial 4 (T4) at Bhucho Village Bhai Devinder Singh Sidhu Gun Club, holding strong positions as the race for the top six intensifies. The trial, which concluded its fourth round on Sept. 6, saw elite shooters from across India competing for limited spots in the finals and future international representation. Bhowneesh Mendiratta, known for his consistency on the international stage, shot an impressive 99, including three perfect rounds of 25 hits and 24 in the fourth. His performance put him four shots ahead of World Cup final silver medalist Vivaan Kapoor and seasoned trap shooter Zoravar Singh Sandhu, both of whom posted scores of 95. The margin demonstrates Mendirattas current form and his ability to maintain composure under pressure in high-stakes qualification matches. Trailing close behind, Shardul Vihaan and Kynan Darius Chenai finished with scores of 93, keeping them in striking distance. Meanwhile, seven shooters Arshad Hasan Khan, Fahd Sultan, Karan, Shapath Bharadwaj, Ali Aman Elahi, Jaswinder Singh, and Lakshay Sheoran remained tightly clustered at 92, making the fight for the sixth and final qualification spot especially fierce. With so many competitors bunched together, the upcoming final series of qualifications is expected to be a pressure test where consistency and mental toughness could prove decisive. On the womens side, Neeru Dhanda showcased why she remains one of Indias premier trap shooters. Her scores of 22, 24, 23, and 23 across the four rounds totaled 92, placing her ahead of the field. Asian Championship bronze medalist Aashima Ahlawat was close behind at 90, followed by Kirti Gupta, Rajeshwari Kumari, and Sabeera Haris, all tied at 89. Preeti Rajak rounded out the top six with a score of 86, ensuring she remains in contention but under pressure heading into the finals. The trial serves as a critical step for Indian shooters aiming to secure their places in upcoming international events, including Asian competitions and potential Olympic qualification. The depth of talent in both the mens and womens fields highlights Indias growing prominence in the shotgun discipline. Emerging talents are testing themselves against established champions, creating a competitive environment that is raising standards across the board. For the Bhucho venue, the trial underscores Punjabs role as a hub for shooting sports development in India. Hosting national-level trials provides local clubs with visibility and affirms their place in nurturing elite-level competition. The use of the Lewis-class trap format, requiring shooters to demonstrate both precision and adaptability, ensures that only those with the highest levels of technical and mental preparation can advance.