Chinese shooter Jiang Yiting, 19, is set to make her Olympic debut at the Paris 2024 Summer Games, representing China in the women’s skeet shooting event.
Despite her young age, Jiang is no stranger to high-level competition. Before the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021, she served as a training partner for veteran Chinese national team members Wei Meng and Zhang Donglian. This experience allowed her to hone her skills alongside some of the country’s top shooters.
“I was a training partner with the Chinese national team before the Tokyo Olympics,” Jiang told China Media Group (CMG). “During that time, I was basically learning from the big brothers and sisters to improve myself.”
The training paid off. In early 2023, Jiang emerged as a standout in domestic competitions, finishing first in the World Cup trials. Reflecting on her rapid rise, she emphasized the importance of competing in finals to build mental resilience.
“I gained the most from competing in the final,” Jiang said. “For example, I began to understand what I should think of during breaks, as well as how to adjust my mindset to perform well in the final.”
In June, following the International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup in Italy, Jiang secured her spot on the Chinese national team for the Paris Olympics. Transitioning from a fan of Chinese Olympians to becoming one herself, she feels both proud and determined.
“I feel proud of myself for being able to compete at the Olympic Games for the first time in my career,” Jiang expressed. “I hope I can reach the top six at the event.”
As Jiang prepares for Paris 2024, her journey from training partner to Olympian serves as an inspiration for young athletes worldwide. Her story reflects dedication, perseverance, and the spirit of continuous improvement.
