In the world of sports, it’s often the underdog stories that inspire us the most. These are tales of relentless determination, unwavering spirit, and an unyielding desire to overcome the odds. One such story that’s currently making waves is that of Singapore’s para-shooter, Daniel Chan.
At the upcoming Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China, from Sunday to October 28, Daniel Chan will represent his country in a sport that requires not only physical prowess but also immense mental strength. His journey to this international stage is nothing short of remarkable.
Armed with his air pistol, Daniel’s mantra for success is simple but profound: “Calm, sights, and triggers.” These three words, etched on masking tape affixed to a styrofoam block, are more than just words to him. They are the core principles that guide his every shot. These principles are not only about the sport but reflect his approach to life itself.
Daniel’s story is one of perseverance and unwavering dedication. He lives with Erb’s palsy, a condition stemming from a traumatic birth that damaged the nerves in his left arm and shoulder. But instead of letting this condition limit him, he’s embraced it as a unique part of his identity, a challenge to conquer. His disability may be a part of who he is, but it doesn’t define his capabilities.
Competing in the SH1 classification for the 10m air pistol event, Daniel doesn’t need a firearm support like those in the SH2 category. His journey into shooting began during his national service when his unit took part in a mini-competition. However, his path took a detour as he studied abroad. It was during the Rio Olympics in 2016 that he rediscovered his passion for shooting, inspired by a Vietnamese shooter who achieved gold at the age of 42.
With the goal of catching up to his newfound inspiration, he began his journey into competitive shooting. It was serendipity that brought him to the para shooting team, encouraged by a connection with former national shooter Zhang Jingna.
One might wonder how Daniel’s condition affects his shooting. He counts himself fortunate compared to some of his para-athlete peers. While his everyday life remains relatively unaffected, the biggest challenge he faces is loading the pellet into the barrel. Yet, he persists with unwavering determination.
Starting his shooting journey later than most, Daniel is putting in extra hours in the range, training six times a week since 2017. His hard work and dedication have already shown results on the international stage with fourth and eighth-place finishes at the World Shooting Para Sport World Cups in Changwon and Munich in 2022.
One key figure in his journey is his coach, Deanne Pheong, who notes Daniel’s determination and discipline in training. Their shared challenges, including dealing with cabin baggage during flights due to their arm injuries, have brought them closer, fostering a unique bond and chemistry between coach and athlete.
Interestingly, Daniel’s passion for the board game Go (weiqi) has found its way into his shooting journey. He runs a Go academy and draws parallels between the two disciplines. Both require unwavering calmness, focus, and precision. For Daniel, there’s no concept of doing something “just for fun.” If he commits to something, he commits with the intent to excel, pouring time, effort, and passion into his endeavors.
As Daniel Chan steps onto the international stage at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, he carries not just his pistol and his three-word mantra but the hopes and dreams of all those who have followed his inspirational journey. He embodies the spirit of resilience, demonstrating that one’s limitations can be transformed into strengths through unwavering determination. Daniel’s journey reminds us that in the face of adversity, it’s the steadfast, the determined, and the passionate who truly shine. Calm, sights, and triggers—indeed, these are the words to live by.