Olympic shooter Johnathan steps up preparation for Asian Games mission after tying the knot

New chapter: Johnathan Wong with his wife Zylane Lee on their wedding day.

PETALING JAYA: Marriage has ushered in a new chapter for national shooter Johnathan Wong, but his sights remain firmly locked on one target and that is the success at the Asian Games.

The 33-year-old Johnathan tied the knot with former national synchronised swimmer Zylane Lee on Jan 3.

In fact, the wedding preparations ran parallel with one of the busiest stretches of his career last year, including his successful defence of the men’s 10m air rifle gold at the SEA Games in Thailand in December.

“Last year was hectic, especially in the second half. Training intensified as we approached the SEA Games, and at the same time, I was making the necessary preparations for my wedding,” said Johnathan.

Johnathan’s first assignment is the World Cup in Spain from April 3-12.

Johnathan and Zylane, who is in her 30s too, go a long way back, having known each other since their days at Bukit Jalil Sports School and later crossing paths regularly at National Sports Council events.

“Balancing both wasn’t easy, but I’m grateful everything went smoothly. My wife was incredibly supportive throughout the SEA Games period, which made a huge difference mentally and emotionally,” he said.

Now that he is married, will life be different for Johnathan as he continues to devote most of his time at the range?

“There will naturally be changes in lifestyle. Commitments and attention won’t be the same as before.

“However, I’m determined to strike the right balance between personal life and elite sport.

“It’s about maturity, time management, and staying disciplined,” said Johnathan, a Universiti Putra Malaysia aerospace engineering graduate.

“This was our first year celebrating Chinese New Year as a married couple, and it was definitely a different experience and bring about new perspective.”

Johnathan’s main goal is the Asian Games in Japan in September.

“This year will be busier, as my teammates and I are preparing for the Asian Games, and the Olympic qualification cycle begins this year as well, with the ultimate target being the 2028 LA Olympics,” he said.

“The intensity and expectations will be higher, so preparation needs to be sharper and more disciplined.

“My main goal is to achieve my best possible result at the Asian Games.

“In the last edition, I managed to reach the final match. This time, I’m aiming for an even stronger performance and hopefully a better outcome.”

One of the first assignments lined up for the Johnathan and Co is the World Cup in Spain from April 3-12.