Lam Dorji, who competed at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, matched Tshering‘s run, beating 8th seed Mohammadhossein Golshani Asl and Hong Kong‘s Kwok Yin Chai on his way to the last eight, finding the strength to win both matches 6-4.
“The expectations were to do my best and then break my own personal record which was 664. However, I could achieve only 659,” said Dorji, who qualified in 31st place.
“Since Paris, my mindset has shifted, meaning that I have redefined my mental pressure into composure, and my shooting techniques are much better. I don’t view myself just as a participant looking up to others, but I see myself as a peer who belongs in the elite conversations.”
“When you’re in those head-to-head elimination rounds, the pressure becomes entirely internal. In Bhutan, our archery matches are very lively, social, and loud. But here in Japan, there is this deep, profound respect. The exact moment you step up to the line, the whole crowd just completely falls silent.”
“What kept me anchored was just a simple reminder to myself; just trust the form that got you here. I didn‘t think about the target or what the match score was. I focused completely on my physical checklist.” Dorji would only be beaten by India’s Neeraj Chauhan in the next round, who went on to take bronze.
