15-year-old Jonathan Gavin Anthony delivered a stellar performance to win gold in Men’s 10m Air Pistol at the 38th National Games in Dehradun, outclassing a field that included the likes of Olympians Sarabjot Singh and Saurabh Chaudhary. The youngster shot a remarkable 240.7 in the final to claim the top spot on the podium. Ravinder Singh (240.3) and Gurpreet Singh (220.1) of Services secured silver and bronze, respectively.
In the first stage of the finals, where all eight finalists take 10 shots each, Jonathan didn’t have a great start, scoring 99.1 to be placed fifth. However, the Karnataka shooter staged a remarkable comeback in the elimination round with the following shots: 10.9, 10, 9.9, 10.1, 10.5, 10.3, 10.6, 10.1, 10.4, 10.2, 10.2, 9.4, 9.1, and 9.0, eventually sealing the gold.
Jonathan faced stiff competition in the qualification round, where he was tied with 2018 Asian Games champion Saurabh Chaudhary at 578 points. Both had the same number of inner 10s, but Jonathan advanced with a stronger final series while Saurabh settled for the ninth place. The shooter from BS International School, who is also preparing for his tenth standard exams starting February 15, showcased exceptional composure throughout the event.
The final also featured Paris Olympic bronze medallist Sarabjot Singh, but Jonathan held his nerve to become the youngest National Games champion in Men’s 10m Air Pistol history. Sarabjot finished fourth with a score of 198.4.
Jonathan’s meteoric rise in Indian shooting has been nothing short of spectacular. Just two years after picking up a pistol for the first time, he has already made his mark at the senior national level. Last year, he won team gold at the Junior Nationals with a qualification score of 576. He followed that up with a 582 at the Kumar Surendra Singh Shooting Championship and a personal best of 587 at the 2024 Khelo India Games, where he secured silver. His National Games gold has further cemented his reputation as a rising star in Indian shooting.
“I’m thrilled with this win. Competing against such talented shooters who have represented India at the highest level makes this victory even more meaningful. Today was my day, and I’m proud of how it all came together,” Jonathan said.
His journey is far from over. In the coming weeks, Jonathan will compete in crucial selection trials in New Delhi that will determine his place in the Indian squad for upcoming World Cups, including the Junior World Cup in September.
With his fearless approach and remarkable progress, Jonathan Antony is undoubtedly a name to watch in Indian shooting. His latest victory is not just a testament to his skill but also a sign of greater achievements to come.