A New Beginning in Shooting: Tilottama Sen's Inspiring Comeback
Tilottama Sen, a promising 17-year-old shooter from Karnataka, has shown resilience and determination in her journey to the top, as she recently clinched her first senior national title in the 50m rifle three positions event at the National Championships.
Overcoming Adversity: Missing the Paris Olympics
In 2025, Tilottama narrowly missed out on a spot in the Paris Olympics due to intense competition for quota spots in India. Despite her impressive performance in the selection trials, decimal points decided her fate, leaving her dejected.
However, instead of letting the disappointment overwhelm her, Tilottama used this setback as an opportunity to grow and adapt. She took a break from shooting and, under the guidance of her coach, Manoj Kumar, ventured into a new event the 50m rifle three positions.
A Fresh Start: Embracing the Challenge of 50m Rifle Three Positions
With a year of training under her belt, Tilottama competed in the 50m rifle three positions event for the first time at the National Championships. Despite being a newcomer in the event, she topped qualification with an impressive score of 591 and went on to win the title with a score of 466.9 in the final.
The 50m rifle three positions event is one of the toughest shooting events, requiring athletes to master shooting while standing, kneeling, and being prone, as well as adapting to outdoor conditions. Tilottama's victory in this event showcases her adaptability, maturity, and talent.
The North East Connection: Tilottama's Journey and Indian Shooting
Tilottama's journey is significant for the North East region, as she hails from Karnataka but started her shooting career during the Covid-19 pandemic. Her success in the 50m rifle three positions event could inspire more young athletes from the region to take up shooting and strive for national recognition.
Furthermore, Tilottama's ability to compete in multiple events, such as the 10m air rifle and 50m rifle three positions, could increase her chances of representing India in major tournaments like the Asian Games, where shooters who can compete in multiple events are often preferred due to limited slots.
Looking Ahead: Tilottama's Focus on the Asian Games and Beyond
With the Asian Games trials later this month and the World Championships offering quota places for the Los Angeles Olympics, Tilottama has her sights set on these upcoming events. Her determination and adaptability make her a strong contender for future success in the world of shooting.