Hearing-Impaired Shooting Champion Defends Title Amidst Career Transition

Huang Cheng-hao has once again proven his prowess on the shooting range, clinching the gold medal in the men's 10m air rifle for the hearing impaired at the 115th National Para Games. Representing Taipei City, Huang's victory marks a successful defense of his title, showcasing his continued dedication to the sport. However, his triumph is tempered by a personal reflection: he feels his performance has actually declined over the past year.

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I've regressed!

This sentiment stems from Huang's bold decision to step outside his 'comfort zone' in shooting and transition into a new career in the human resources department at Starlux Airlines. This significant shift required him to adapt to a fast-paced corporate environment, a stark contrast to the familiar setting of the shooting range where he previously worked. The demanding nature of his new job, coupled with the need to train in his limited free time, has placed immense pressure on his athletic pursuits.

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I used to work in shooting-related jobs, and suddenly switching to a completely different field was very stressful at first.

Huang's experience underscores the significant challenges faced by para-athletes who also maintain full-time employment. He candidly admits to the mental and physical exhaustion that comes with juggling these two demanding roles, often relying on fragmented training sessions after work. Despite these hurdles, Huang remains committed to his sport, expressing a desire to compete internationally if his scores permit. His journey exemplifies the resilience and determination required to pursue athletic excellence while navigating the complexities of professional life, a narrative that resonates deeply within Taiwan's sporting community.

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After work, my brain is already a bit tired, and I can't concentrate 100% on shooting. This is the main reason I feel my performance has declined this year, even though I won gold.