Paris 2024: Shooter Daniel Chan comes close to reaching final on Paralympic debut

By Nicole Chia

Singapore shooter Daniel Chan came within touching distance of reaching a final at his first-ever Paralympic Games on 30 August, ending his campaign with a commendable 10th-placed finish in the qualification round of the men’s 10m air pistol SH1 event. The 36-year-old was just two places shy of a berth in the final with his score of 561 at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre.

Daniel Chan smiles during the qualification round of the men’s 10m air pistol SH1 event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Credit: SportSG/Eng Chin An

The qualification round required athletes to make 60 shots, divided over six series of 10 shots each. The top eight athletes advance to the final.

Daniel Chan scored 561 in the men’s 10m air pistol SH1 qualification round at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games to finish in 10th place. Credit: SportSG/Eng Chin An

Among a field that included defending Paralympic champion Yang Chao of China and Hangzhou 2022 Asian Para Games bronze medallist Manish Narwal of India, Chan held his own well after a nervy start. Though he hovered within the last five places in the early stages, the Singaporean quickly found his groove and kept his composure to steadily climb the rankings.

A stunning run of form in the penultimate series saw him record perfect 10s for six consecutive shots and propel to 10th place. Chan, who took up shooting para sport seriously only after watching the 2016 Olympic Games, rose to seventh place early in the final series but eventually finished 10th.

Chan acknowledged that nerves had contributed to his rocky start, but he turned things around by reframing his mindset. “During my last series, my time was running out, so I had to rush through a bit. But I am glad to be able to end off the competition with a 10,” he added. “It is definitely disappointing not because of the score, but on how I handle the (shooting) process because I know I can perform better than this. This will be a very good learning lesson for me.”

Singapore athlete Daniel Chan at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre, the venue for the shooting para sport event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Credit: SportSG/Eng Chin An

Chan had trained six times a week since 2017 in his bid to compete at the highest level of his sport, and he is already eager to get back to practice upon returning to Singapore. Reflecting on his Paralympic debut, he said: “Shooting is an ongoing learning process and I am glad to be part of this Paralympic Games. This competition will definitely make me a better shooter and person moving forward.”

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games take place in Paris, France from 28 August to 8 September 2024. For the latest Team Singapore coverage and news, follow Team Singapore on their social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) or visit the official Team Singapore website.