TN archers aim big after first medals in KIYG

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu recently clinched their first set of archery medals in seven editions of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG). The mixed compound pair of R Midhun and M Madhuravarshini secured silver, while Smaran Sarvesh bagged the second spot in the boys individual recurve event held in Bihar.

Midhun and Madhuravarshini lost the final by just one point (151-152) to Maharashtra. The TN pair was leading in the fourth set but could not hold their nerve, succumbing to pressure. Madhuravarshini, in particular, stood out as she consistently hit the bull’s eye, but a few 9s from her in the final arrows did not prove enough.

“The last three arrows decided the fate of the match. It could have been due to time management or lack of coordination. Overall, I am very happy, as the sport is growing in Tamil Nadu. Two-three years ago, any team would have beaten us easily, but that is no longer the case,” Madhuravarshini, who had reached the quarterfinals in the Asia Cup Stage I earlier this year, told TOI.

“The state clinched several medals in age-group competitions in the past year and that is a good sign. Maharashtra conducts camp before every tournament they participate and that is why their players have strong coordination and understanding. If TN also start conducting camps regularly, we can get better.”

With the compound event being added to the LA Olympics, Madhuravarshini has set her sights on the quadrennial extravaganza.

In men’s individual recurve, Smaran went 2-6 down to Ujwal Bharat of Maharashtra. The 16-year-old Smaran was inconsistent and managed to win only one set. “This medal is very important to me, and this was my maiden appearance at the KIYG. I will train hard and aim for gold in the next edition,” Smaran said.

Smaran’s mother, Lavanya, an IPS officer, initially wanted him to take up shooting. However, since the minimum required age was eight, he was enrolled in archery. Smaran gradually developed an interest in the sport and never looked back. He joined the National Centre of Excellence in Sonipat last year, and the training there has helped him improve.

Smaran had represented India in the Asian Youth Championship last year and, like Madhuravarshini, was part of the national team in Asia Cup Stage I. The main goal for both the archers is to get selected for the World Youth Championships. The trials for the competition are scheduled to take place in Pune from May 22. Additionally, the archers also have a chance to book their spots in the Asia Cup Stage II.