After securing a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics-2024, Swapnil Kusale shared his experience with media. He recounted how the anticipation before the event elevated the heartbeat of all the competitors. However, by controlling his breathing and maintaining a calm and focused demeanor, he was able to excel in his performance.
In the Paris Olympics-2024, Kusale achieved this feat in the 50-meter rifle three-position shooting event, contributing to India's tally of three medals. He became the first Indian to reach the final of this event, marking a significant milestone in his career.
My focus was only on myself
Speaking with other journalists post-victory, Kusale revealed his singular focus during the competition. "I was not even paying attention to the scoreboard. My focus was only on myself and shooting. I just wanted to see all the Indians present there happy," he said.
Learning from past mistakes
Reflecting on his journey to the Olympics, Kusale attributed his success to learning from past mistakes and experiences. He expressed deep gratitude to his coach, Deepali Ma'am, for her emotional support throughout his journey.
When asked about his pre-match preparations, Kusale shared that he prays to God and recites mantras, which help him stay centered and composed.
We were sure he would win a medal: Swapnil's parents
As Swapnil shot to glory in the 50m rifle 3 positions event, taking India's tally to three at the Paris Games on Thursday, his family and friends exploded in joy at his home in Kolhapur district.
The parents of Swapnil Kusale said they were sure he would win a medal for the “tricolour and the country”. They said people have been calling them to extend their greetings and good wishes.
“We let him focus on his work and didn't even call him yesterday so that he should not get distracted,” Swapnil's father Suresh Kusale told reporters in Kolhapur, soon after their son won a bronze for India in Paris.
“For the last 10 to 12 years, he was mostly away from home, focusing on his marksmanship. I was sure he would win a medal for India and wouldn't let the tricolour down," Suresh, a school teacher, said further.
Joined Railways as a ticket checker in 2015
Swapnil Kusale joined the Pune Division of Indian Railways as a ticket checker in 2015. Ever since, he hasn’t been able to give significant time to his duty as he has been busy training. However, on Thursday, he gave an invaluable gift to the Central Railway — an Olympic medal.
We are thrilled: DRM
“We are absolutely thrilled,” said Indu Rani Dubey, Divisional Railway Manager, Pune Division, where Kusale is an employee. “It’s a proud moment for the country, the state and the Indian Railways. We are celebrating his historic win along with the rest of the country,” she said.
She said that the Pune Division will welcome Kusale in a grand way when he returns from Paris. “Since he joined, he has focussed on his game. He’s a very focussed person and he has given a fitting gift to the Central Railway which allowed him to pursue his passion,” said Dubey.
The 28-year-old shooter hails from Radhanagari in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. He honed his shooting skills at the Sports Academy of Nashik and is currently employed by the Railways in Pune. Prior to his Olympic success, Kusale was part of the team that won the gold medal in the team event at the 2022 Asian Games.