India, Oct. 5 -- The transition from juniors to seniors is one of the toughest phases for any athlete. The competition, expectations and pressures at the elite international level are several notches higher. Many of India's promising junior shooters are preparing to make that leap with the 2026 Asian Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics in mind.

India's juniors have dominated this year, topping the medal tally at the ISSF Junior World Cups in Suhl and Delhi. Many posted big scores and underlined their potential. But the step up will be daunting. Even seasoned shooters feel the heat of selection trials, where competition is cut throat for a place on the senior team.

"I will be competing with seniors from next year. I have to prepare m...