In the realm of world shooting where precision meets patience, Elavenil Valarivan stands out for her remarkable achievements, vibrant personality, and infectious enthusiasm. Her voice gives you a perfect introduction to her confident soul. At just 24 years old, this two-time Olympian (recently Paris 2024) has already etched her name in the annals of sports history, representing India with unparalleled grace and determination.
A Springtime Journey
Elavenil, whose name translates to “spring” in Tamil, embodies the spirit of renewal and vigor that the season represents. Born in Ahmedabad, Elavenil’s journey from a lively child to an internationally celebrated athlete is as dynamic as her name suggests. Moving to Ahmedabad with her parents when she was just 2.5 years old, the city became the backdrop for her early adventures and aspirations.
From a young age, sports were more than just an extracurricular activity for Ela—they were a way of life. “I was always on the ground, rather than in class,” she laughs, reflecting on her childhood. “Sports were my playground, my escape. I didn’t know where I was headed, but I knew I wanted to be involved in sports.”
Her initial encounters with various sports seemed like a search for the perfect fit until a chance meeting set her on an unexpected path. At the age of 13, Elavenil was introduced to shooting by a family connection. “I had no idea about shooting—only knew about movie shooting,” she jokes. “At first, it seemed so boring to stand still for long periods. But that challenge hooked me. It was a sport that tested my patience and focus, and I embraced it.”
From Ahmedabad to the Olympic Stage
Elavenil’s path to the Olympics was anything but conventional. Initially planning to pursue engineering, her mother encouraged her to explore her sporting potential. High school became a pivotal period and the Rifle shooting took center stage in her life, supported by her school’s unwavering encouragement.
Her dedication paid off, leading to her debut at the Olympics and a subsequent appearance on the global stage. Elavenil’s determination and hard work culminated in her being an Arjuna Awardee, a prestigious honor recognizing outstanding achievement in Indian sports. The thrill of representing her country at such an esteemed level remains a profound experience. “The feeling of representing India is always the same—exciting and humbling,” she says with a confident smile.
The Balance of Fitness and Mental Fortitude
Elavenil’s success is rooted in her holistic approach to her sport. Fitness is crucial, not just for physical strength but for maintaining consistency and mental resilience. “I’ve always loved working out; it gives me a high,” she shares. “It keeps me sane through the ups and downs and helps me stay calm and perform at my best.”
Mental fitness is equally important in shooting, a sport that demands intense focus and composure. “Shooting is as much a mental game as it is physical,” she explains. “It’s a journey of growth. Over the years, I’ve transformed into a different person, and I’m grateful for that evolution.”
Like every other athlete, her journey has not been without challenges. Ela has been through the inevitable ups and downs of life. it’s “ either you win or you learn” for her. The aftermath of the Tokyo Olympics was tough as, “people around me and especially I had so many expectations”, but what kept me going at that time was my coach.
She believes her coach and psychologist have been instrumental in her continued success. “My coach is the best thing that happened to my career. She has been my pillar of strength,” Elavenil asserts. “The confidence she and my psychologist have given me has shaped who I am today.”
Ela is the second child of a Tamilian family, and she expresses gratitude for her family's steadfast support, which has been her pillar of strength. She is thankful for them fueling her independence with trust. The freedom, trust, and belief they have shown in her have greatly influenced the person she has become today.
Beyond the Range: A Multifaceted Persona
Elavenil’s personality is as vibrant as her shooting career. Despite being a Tamilian, she proudly embraces her Gujarati side, reveling in the dance of Garba and savoring dhokla and chaniya choli. Her love for these cultural elements adds a unique dimension to her life outside the shooting range.
If not for shooting, Elavenil humorously muses that she might have ended up working in a multinational company abroad. Besides her sport, like every other Indian, She admires the cool demeanor of MS Dhoni and is inspired by the charismatic persona of Roger Federer, his elegance and skill. A self-proclaimed foodie, she has a particular fondness for chicken biryani. When asked about her favorite moment in a match, she grins, “It’s when it ends. It’s a thank-god feeling.”
Words of Wisdom
For the youth of the country, our sharpshooter offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: “Believe in yourself. Whether it’s sports, education, or art, there will be moments that test your patience and skills. But unwavering belief in yourself will keep you going even in the darkest times. Just go for it.”
This is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. From a playful child in Ahmedabad to a celebrated Olympian, Elavenil Valarivan’s journey inspires us all to chase our dreams with the same enthusiasm and dedication
