Nepal's archers chase Asian Games medal amid crumbling facilities and equipment shortages

Nepal's archers are preparing for the 20th Asian Games with a medal in sight, but their training is hampered by deteriorating facilities and a severe lack of essential equipment. The national archery team lacks its own training ground in the capital, forcing them to use facilities at the Nepal Police Academy. The condition of the training area is poor, with rotting target boards and torn tarpaulin for shelter.

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We have problems even with the equipment. The things we need for training are not always available in Nepal, so we have to order them from abroad. It is expensive.

Athletes face further difficulties due to equipment shortages. Recurve archers Tilak Pun Magar and Gyanu Awale have had to purchase their own bows and arrows. "We have problems even with the equipment. The things we need for training are not always available in Nepal, so we have to order them from abroad. It is expensive," Tilak explained.

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Let’s see what score we get there. We all go with the goal of winning a medal. You need confidence, but rather than just hoping for a medal, it is better to go with a clear target.

Despite these obstacles, Tilak, preparing for his third Asian Games, remains ambitious. He expressed confidence in setting a better record than in previous competitions. Gyanu, also preparing for her second Games, aims to improve her performance. Coach Prem Prasad Pun believes the team is better prepared than ever, citing continuous training over the past two years and significant improvements in skills, technique, and fitness.

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I am confident that I can set a better record than before.

Nepal has participated in the Asian Games four times previously but has yet to secure an archery medal. Tilak and Gyanu will compete in the 70-meter recurve events across men's, women's, and mixed categories. The coach views the Games not just as a medal opportunity but also as a chance for Nepali archers to compete against world-class athletes in a sport considered a powerhouse in Asia and globally.

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I will try to do better than before. We are somewhat different this time. Things were not as good previously, but this time my goal is to perform better.