Manu Bhaker, a double Olympic medallist from India, is set to run for the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Athletes Committee elections for the term spanning from 2026 to 2030. She has been nominated as a candidate in the Pistol category, joining nine other contenders for two available positions in this discipline. At just 24 years old, Bhaker has articulated a vision prioritising athlete welfare and improved competition conditions globally.

Having competed at the highest levels of the sport, Bhaker believes that athletes should have a significant role in shaping decisions that impact their careers and the future of shooting. Her agenda encompasses various aspects of an athlete’s journey, including the stability of competition rules, financial opportunities, and mental health support.

Key Priorities in Bhaker’s Agenda

One of Bhaker’s primary objectives is to protect the Men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol event, advocating for its ongoing inclusion in the Olympic programme. She aims to ensure that this event remains a staple of the Olympics, thereby securing its future for upcoming generations of shooters. Additionally, Bhaker seeks to establish greater consistency in technical rules across Olympic cycles, which would allow athletes to prepare with more confidence and stability.

Another significant focus for Bhaker is enhancing the financial landscape of shooting. She intends to campaign for improved prize money at ISSF World Cups and explore new commercial opportunities through formats that are more appealing to broadcasters and sponsors. This initiative aims to create increased value for athletes and elevate the sport’s profile.

Furthermore, Bhaker is keen on expanding the sport’s reach to new audiences. She plans to leverage social media and digital platforms, alongside developing television-friendly competition formats, to broaden the global appeal of shooting. Her vision includes creating accessible channels for athletes to voice their concerns directly to the ISSF leadership, thus fostering stronger representation.

Supporting Athlete Mental Health

Bhaker has also highlighted the importance of mental health and well-being for athletes. She advocates for the implementation of robust sports psychology programmes and the establishment of designated quiet zones at ISSF events to support competitors’ mental health. Recognising the pressures faced by athletes, she believes that these measures are crucial for their overall well-being.

In addition to mental health support, Bhaker is pushing for practical financial security measures and career-transition pathways for shooters post-retirement. She aims to help athletes build sustainable lives beyond their competitive careers, ensuring that they have the necessary resources and guidance to navigate their futures.

Expressing her thoughts on her candidacy, Bhaker stated that she wants athletes to play an active role in shaping the future of shooting. She emphasised that it is vital for athletes to be more than just participants; they should also be influential voices in the sport.

Upcoming Elections and Their Significance

The ISSF Athletes Committee serves as a crucial link between athletes and the governing body of the sport. Its responsibilities include collecting athlete feedback, advising on rules and regulations, improving competition conditions, and advocating for athlete welfare. The elections are scheduled to take place during the ISSF World Championship 300m Rifle in Cairo from October 17 to 19, and the ISSF World Championship Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun in Doha from November 3 to 13.

Athletes aged 18 and above who are competing at either championship will be eligible to vote. Each eligible competitor can cast votes for up to two candidates in each discipline. Bhaker’s candidacy marks another significant milestone in her already illustrious career, as she aims to contribute to the sport’s future while representing the interests of fellow athletes.

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