The crack of gunfire echoes across the national shooting range as Iran’s top para shooters commence their 13-day selection camp, marking the first step toward the 2026 Asian Para Games in Nagoya.
Camp at a Glance
Dates: April 10-23, 2024
Location: National Team Camp, Tehran
Athletes: 20 elite shooters (12 pistol, 8 rifle)
Selection Pressure: Only 8 spots available for Nagoya squad
Notable Participants
The firing line features a mix of experience and fresh talent:
• Defending Champion: Nasrin Shahi (pistol) seeks third Asian Games medal
• Rising Star: 19-year-old Mahsa Hajimohammadi makes senior team debut
• Veteran Comeback: Majid Babaei returns after spinal injury rehabilitation
Technical Focus
Coaching staff led by Amirhossein Solt (pistol) and Zeinab Aghaaliakbari (rifle) are implementing:
✓ Customized stability training for wheelchair athletes
✓ Pressure simulation drills mimicking Nagoya conditions
✓ Equipment modifications for new classification rules
Road to Japan
The federation’s roadmap includes:
June 2024: World Cup in UAE (qualification points)
March 2025: Asian Championships in Korea
Monthly “Shoot-Offs” to track progress
“The sound of gunfire here represents our athletes’ determination,” says head coach Solt, adjusting a visually impaired shooter’s stance. “We’re rebuilding our dominance after the Beijing setback.”
With morning sessions dedicated to breath control and afternoons to mental conditioning, the camp embodies Iran’s calculated approach to reclaiming its position as Asia’s para shooting powerhouse.
