Natalie Smith has this evening secured the first Paris 2024 Paralympic quota for the Australian Shooting Team at the World Shooting Para Sports (WSPS) World Cup in New Delhi, India.
The Australian Para Shooting Team (Scott Brydon, Glen McMurtrie, Anton Zappelli and Natalie Smith) arrived into New Delhi early last week, with Natalie competing in two women’s rifle events across 10 metre and 50 metre distances. Today was Natalie’s second event; the Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions, where she was successful in securing a quota.
Of the quota win, Natalie said, “I am still in a bit of shock. I didn’t have the best shoot so it feels a bit unbelievable to come away with a quota.”
When comparing the difference between her performance when competing domestically in Australia and at an international competition Natalie said, “This has been an interesting experience. My preparation has been really good coming into this World Cup but I could not consolidate in the event. I usually feel I perform stronger in an international competition environment as the other competitors push you harder.”
Tomorrow is the final day of competition in New Delhi before the Australian Team heads home.
