'My father sold a property to help me follow my ambition,' reveals shooter Sonam Maskar
New Delhi, July 16
Kolhapur's Sonam Uttam Maskar went from casually taking up shooting to preparing to represent India at the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. She revealed that her father sold a property to provide her with the necessary equipment to follow her ambitions.
The 23-year-old 10m air rifle shooter will be part of the Indian team heading to Japan, where the shooting events at the Asian Games are set to take place from September 17 to October 3 at the Aichi Prefectural General Shooting Gallery.
Sonam's ascent to the global stage was preceded by financial struggles. As she committed to shooting seriously, the expense of professional gear became a barrier, especially as her family faced economic hardships after the Covid-19 pandemic.
"There was a time when we were facing financial difficulties, especially around the lockdown period. When it became clear that I needed my own equipment to progress further in shooting, my father sold a property so that we could buy it. It was a big decision for our family, but they have always supported me," Sonam recalled.
Sonam's first encounter with shooting was in 2018 during her studies at Tolani College of Commerce in Mumbai, and a professional career in the sport was never part of her original plans.
"I was always interested in sports and I used to play chess as well. I thought I should try something different, so I initially took up shooting. I started shooting as a hobby, but it soon became something I wanted to build my career around," she said.
Following the pandemic disruption of her early progress, Sonam started focused training in 10m air rifle shooting at the Kolhapur range in 2021.
She quickly rose to prominence, with one of her proudest accomplishments being the silver medal at the 2024 ISSF World Cup Final in New Delhi.
"The World Cup Final medal in Delhi in 2024 is one of the most special moments of my career. Winning a silver medal in front of the home crowd was a very memorable experience for me," Sonam said.
Her international achievements, notably her victory at the 2024 Cairo World Cup, led to her opportunity to represent the Railways. Currently, Sonam is concentrating on the Asian Games and is training with foreign coach Farnik Thomas alongside her Indian team coaches as she prepares for the major continental event.
Sonam also thanked everyone who has supported her along her journey. "I am extremely grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. My family has always stood by me, and I am also thankful to my sponsors, OGQ, the NRAI, SAI NCOE, Railways and my entire support staff for constantly supporting me and helping me grow as an athlete," Sonam said.
"The preparations for the Asian Games are going well. I am currently working with my foreign coach, Farnik Thomas, as well as my Indian coaches in the team, and the focus is on preparing in the best possible way for the competition," she concluded.
— IANS
Reader Comments
What a story! It's heartwarming to see parents sacrifice so much for their children's ambitions. But it also makes me think - how many talented kids are we losing because they can't afford equipment? The government should have schemes to support athletes financially so they don't have to sell property. Sonam is lucky to have such a family. All the best to her!
Incredible journey from hobby to international level! Silver medal at World Cup Final in Delhi was special indeed. And now Asian Games - what a platform! The Railways support and OGQ sponsorship must be a relief after those tough COVID days. Sonam, you're a true fighter. Best of luck!
Respect for Sonam's father! 🙏 But honestly, it's a bit sad that in 2024, athletes still have to sell family property to pursue their dreams. Our country needs better sports funding at the grassroots level. Having said that, Sonam's dedication is amazing - from a casual hobby to representing India! Keep shining, girl! 💪
This is what makes Indian sports so special - these stories of sacrifice and determination. Sonam's father is a hero in his own right! And her rise from Kolhapur to international podiums is just amazing. Can't wait to see her at the Asian Games. Let's go, Sonam! 🇮🇳🏆
What a wonderful example of family support! But it's also a reminder that many talented kids from modest backgrounds need more institutional help. The fact that she had to sell property just for equipment shows the gap in our sports ecosystem. That said, Sonam's achievement is phenomenal - from a casual decision to an
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.