Follow new rule: Bindra ~

Abhinav Bindra

New Delhi: Abhinav Bindra, on Tuesday, said the latest decision to bring the number of shots in women's events on a par with their male counterparts was taken by the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF) only after consulting a large number of top shooters.

The decision has raised many eyebrows, including here in India. Bindra, too, has faced criticism since he is the chairman of the ISSF athletes' commission.

Bindra said: "It would be better for the shooters to adapt to the latest change rather than complaining about it. The ISSF only took the decision after consulting with lots of shooters across the world. The majority of them agreed to it," he said.

"A lot of petitions wanting an increase in shots had been pending for last few years, something which was in the works for a long time. The rule has been changed and everybody has to adapt to it. You must follow the new rule.

"It wasn't the decision of the athletes committee alone. It's the decision taken by the ISSF's administrative council which overwhelmingly voted in favour of the rule change," the 2008 Olympic gold medallist said.

According to the new rule, which would come into effect from January 1, the shots in the women's 10 meters air rifle and air pistol events will increase from 40 to 60.

The number of shots will be increased in other women's rifle events and in women's skeet and trap events.

Bindra was in the capital, on Tuesday, for the launch of the Elms Sports Foundation. Speaking on the occasion, the former star shooter said the country needed coaching in a scientific and professional manner to nurture the sporting talents in the country.

"Last decade, we have seen the emergence of a large number of talented sportspersons in India. Talent is always there. We are from the self-help generation, who have now grown up," he said.

Posted by Thom Erik Syrdahl

Source: - https://www.telegraphindia.com/sports/follow-new-rule-bindra-194898