Three years ago, Ayesha Al Mehairi made history as the first Emirati woman to qualify for the Paralympics in Tokyo 2020. As a rifle para shooter trained at the Dubai Club for People of Determination, she is now preparing for her second Paralympics in Paris 2024. Al Mehairi will participate in the R4 - 10m air rifle standing SH2 and R5 - 10m air rifle prone SH2 events. She will be one of five shooters representing the United Arab Emirates at the Shooting Para Sport competitions held at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre, located on the outskirts of Paris.
Ayesha Al Mehairi is determined to leverage her self-belief and resolve to make an impact in Paris. "I aim to finish in the top 8 of my competition in Paris," she stated, being a mother of five. During her participation in Tokyo 2020, she focused on gaining experience and learning to control her emotions and breathing. "I qualified for Tokyo 2020 just six months after I began my journey in Shooting Para Sport. Thus, I went to Tokyo with minimal expectations," said the 48-year-old, who secured her Paralympic qualifications in Peru. She earned her spot for Paris at the Lima 2023 World Championships the previous year.
Al Mehairi's transition from being a Boccia player since 2008 to Shooting Para Sport was seamless. "It was very smooth, I took to shooting immediately in 2019. It's a sport that allows you to challenge yourself. It's just me and the target. Additionally, it feels very Emirati; I feel it's in my blood. Holding the rifle brings me joy," she explained. Over the past five years, she has won four medals, including one gold, two silver, and one bronze, in international competitions such as the World Cups in France (Chateauroux) and UAE (Al Ain).
Despite acknowledging the challenges faced by wheelchair-bound athletes, such as long flights and training sessions, she praised the support from the Club and the special attention given to persons with physical impairments in the Emirates. "There's now greater awareness about the challenges we face, thanks to digital media and media reports. In the UAE, there's been significant support, with platforms provided by the government and organizations, which is enabling more Para athletes to pursue sports, develop as players, and fulfill their dreams," she noted. "From accessible transport and venues to coaches, support staff, and people knowledgeable about dealing with impairments, there's extensive support for this community to thrive in various sectors of society."
Al Mehairi concluded by sharing her secret to achieving her goals. "I believe we must know our steps to reach our goals. I have a schedule in a book to guide me to my objectives," she said while finalizing her preparations for Paris 2024 in Turkey.
