Former shooter and Khel Ratna awardee, Ronjan Sodhi, has expressed his interest in the prestigious role of Chef De Mission for the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics 2024. This development comes after the six-time world champion boxer, MC Mary Kom, stepped down from the post due to personal reasons.
Ronjan Sodhi’s desire to lead the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics
Sodhi, a gold medallist at the 2010 Asian Games and a two-time World Cup final winner in double-trap shooting has submitted his credentials to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). He stated, “Being former world No. 1 and world record holder and multiple World Cup medallist and an Olympian, I deem myself fit (for the post). I’m also mentoring a lot of young, budding sportspersons across different disciplines and not just shooting,”.
The IOA had initially appointed Mary Kom, a bronze medallist at the London Games 2012, as the Chef De Mission on March 21. However, she decided to step down on April 12. Following her decision, Sodhi decided to send his candidature.
Mary Kom Resigns as India’s Chef-de-Mission for Paris Olympics 2024
Ajay Narang, the executive assistant to IOA president PT Usha, confirmed that the IOA had received an e-mail and a letter from Sodhi expressing his interest in the role. He stated, “We have received a letter and an e-mail (from Sodhi). Dr Usha and EC members will decide when that (decision to appoint a Chef-de-Mission) is going to happen.”.
Narang also mentioned that these are sensitive issues, and many other things are involved, including accreditation and many other agencies get involved in making such a decision. He added that the decision can only be taken in May.
Sodhi, who has won multiple medals across the ISSF World Cups, the Asian Games, and the Commonwealth Games, is keen to learn and contribute to the betterment of Indian sport. He said, “I will only go there (Paris) and learn for the betterment of Indian sport.”
.@SodhiRonjan throws his hat in the ring for the prestigious position of chef-de-mission for the Paris Olympics following @MangteC’s decision to step down due to personal reasons#Paris2024 https://t.co/V2t68VB6Yg
— Firstpost Sports (@FirstpostSports) April 25, 2024
The role of the Chef De Mission is crucial as it involves leading the contingent, liaising with the organizers, and ensuring the welfare of the athletes. Sodhi’s experience as a former world No. 1 and his ongoing mentorship of young athletes across different disciplines makes him a strong contender for the role.
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