PyeongChang 2018: Lidziya Hrafeyeva eyes Summer Paralympics

Belarusian may consider trying shooting after competing at her second Winter Paralympics 11 Mar 2018
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three female sit skiers on the podium with their medals

Lidziya Hrafeyeva (R) could turn her attention to the Summer Games after winning bronze in PyeongChang

ⒸGetty Images
By IPC

“I like shooting because in order to be good at it, you need to concentrate, be self-disciplined and be precise when aiming at the target.”

Lidziya Hrafeyeva may be competing at PyeongChang 2018, but at the same time she wonders how it will be like to take part in a Summer Paralympics.

Belarus´ sit-skier is one of the leading contenders in the biathlon, a sport which combines cross-country and shooting.

Her reputation as one to watch in the discipline was cemented when she picked up bronze in the women’s 6km race on the opening day.

Although her focus is now on delivering her best possible performance at the Paralympic Winter Games, she does not dismiss the possibility of trying to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 in shooting.

“I know it is complicated, but I may give it a shot,” the 32-year-old said. “It would be great to be at the next Summer Paralympics.

“I like shooting because in order to be good at it, you need to concentrate, be self-disciplined and be precise when aiming at the target.”

PyeongChang 2018 is Hrafeyeva´s second Winter Paralympics after competing at Sochi 2014, and she is hopeful of more medal success.

“My goal is to show my best and achieve my best results. In Sochi it was my first Games, I was a newcomer in the sport but now I feel more experienced and more confident,” she said.

“I do not distinguish between international competitions, I always give my best. I was sick throughout this season but I am recovered now and ready for PyeongChang 2018.”

Every competition as well as the Closing Ceremony can be watched live right here on the International Paralympic Committee’s website. Highlights of each day’s action will also be made available.