European meets key to Syasya’s Asian Games bid

PETALING JAYA: Two upcoming European competitions could determine whether shooter Nurul Syasya Nadiah Ariffin earns a shot at redemption at this year’s Asian Games.

The national 10m air pistol record holder knows her place in the squad for the Aichi-Nagoya Games in September will hinge on her performances abroad.

“Selection for the Asian Games depends on our international results this year, and the European meets will be the benchmark.

“I need exposure overseas to gauge my level. I’m planning to compete in Munich, (Germany), and Zermatt (Switzerland) in May,” said Syasya.

“If I do well in the Asian Games, I’ve a chance to get picked for the World Championships in Doha in November,” said the former SEA Games gold medallist shooter.

Syasya, who won her first SEA Games gold in the 10m air pistol individual event when she was only 20 in Vietnam four years ago, is hoping to get another chance to prove her worth on the Asian Games stage.

In her Asian Games debut in Hangzhou in 2023, Syasya did not qualify for the individual final after placing 27th. Only the top eight shooters from the preliminary round advance to the final.

She combined with Bibiana Ng and Joseline Cheah to finish ninth in the team competition.

“If I get to go, it will be my second Asian Games.

“My first time was a bit disappointing due to nerves but it helped me identify areas to improve.

“My motto this year is to learn, adapt and get revenge for previous losses,” said the Thailand SEA Games bronze medallist.

But first, Syasya will take a short break to celebrate Hari Raya with her family in Batu Pahat.

“Raya is about family and I truly cherish those moments. The memories of celebrating with my ‘tok nenek’ (grandmother) are unforgettable, even though she’s no longer with us,” said Syasya, whose favourites are lemang and rendang.