Family Background:-

Born to Punjabi parents, Bhimsen and Amarjit Narang, Gagan grew up in Chennai. His father is a retired Chief Manager of Air India. Though originally from Panipat in Haryana, the family shifted when his father was transferred to Chennai.

It was his father who introduced Gagan to an air pistol in 1997. Right from his childhood, he had an inclination of Gagan’s talent. He built a shooting arena in their home for Gagan to practice.

Gagan Narang shooting journey

In 2003, Narang won the gold medal at the Afro Asian Games in Hyderabad. He won the award in men’s 10m air rifle competition. This golden spree continued with air rifle gold medal at the 2006 World Cup.

The 2006 Commonwealth was very special for Narang with a staggering tally of four gold medals. He also won the top honours at the 2008 World cup in China. Subsequently, he qualified for the 2008 ISSF World Cup Final.

The next edition of the Commonwealth Games, the 2010 New Delhi Games, were again truly golden for Narang. Again, he won four gold medals. He also shot a perfect score of 600 in the 10 m air rifles singles event and set a new record.

On the opening day of the Asian Games, Narang won a silver medal.

At the London Olympics, Narang scripted his name in history, as well as the hearts of all Indians,  by winning the bronze medal in the 10 m air rifle event with a score of 701.1.

Interesting Facts about Gagan Narang

Narang works with Air India as an Assistant Manager.
At the 2012 Indian Grand Prix, he was invited to wave the chequered flag.
He was the flag bearer at the 2010 Asian Games.
Narang is supported by the Olympic Gold Quest.
Barack Obama, former US President, has always been a huge inspiration for Narang. Legendary boxer, Muhammad Ali, is another of his icons.
Narang’s hobbies include playing table tennis and cricket. He also follows tennis, and Roger Federer is his favourite sportsperson.
Narang is a big fan of Chinese food.
His favourite actresses are Nicole Kidman and Penelope Cruz.
Narang’s favourite destination in the world is Langkawi in Malaysia.
Photography has become a passion for Narang. In an interview with the DNA, he spoke about his new love.
Narang was really hurt after being ignored time and again for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award. In fact, he threatened to boycott the 2010 Commonwealth Games to protest. It was at the insistence of his family and friends that he changed his mind. Finally, in 2011, he received the most prestigious sporting award in the country at the hands of then President, Pratibha Patil.

Guns for Glory

After an extremely successful career, Narang wants to take the role of a mentor now. With this aim in life, he has started the academy Guns for Glory in Pune, Maharashtra. Now there are 16 training centres across the country under the brand.

He has also partnered on a project- Project Leap, to offer top-class training facilities and infrastructure to the top talent from Guns for Glory.

Achievements

Awards

Padma Shree Award, 2011
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, 2011

Olympics

ISSF World Medal Tally
 

Commonwealth Championships
 

Commonwealth Games