Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, May 5: Rajasthan’s Prachi and Mayank Choudhary clinched the first gold medal of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025, Bihar edition, in a nail-biting 10m air pistol mixed team final held at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range on Monday.

In a gripping finale, Rajasthan edged past Uttar Pradesh in a dramatic 16-15 finish after both teams were locked at 15-all. The pressure was on 18-year-old Prachi from Bharatpur, who delivered a perfect 10.6 in the final shot to seal the gold. “Ups and downs were there during the match, and I’m happy my last shot was good enough to give us gold,” said a beaming Prachi, who previously won silver at the KIYG.

The silver went to Uttar Pradesh’s young duo of Dev Pratap and Urva Chaudhary. Fourteen-year-old Dev, one of the youngest participants at this year’s Games and a resident of Noida, impressed many in his debut appearance. “Though I do not have much experience, I tried my best. Having patience was the key,” said Dev, who showed remarkable composure under pressure.

His experienced teammate, Urva, competing in her third KIYG, lauded her partner’s effort. “It’s really wonderful playing with him. He was shooting really well. There was a point where we were 2-10 down, but we covered up and tied the score at 15-15,” she recalled.

In the bronze medal match, Delhi’s Hardik Bansal and Niyamicka Rana overcame a fierce challenge from Haryana’s Pratik Sheokand and Kanak. Leading 14-6 at one point, Delhi looked set for a comfortable win, but Haryana bounced back with determination before Delhi sealed the match 16-14 in a tense finish.

The opening day of KIYG 2025 has set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling edition filled with youthful energy, close contests, and rising stars.