Jasmine Ser kicks off Team Singapore's Olympic medal quest

RIO DE JANEIRO - After an opening night of Brazilian-style colour, culture and samba, National shooter Jasmine Ser kicks off the first day of action for Team Singapore at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games today (Aug 6),  8.30am (7.30pm, Singapore time), in the women's 10m air rifle at the Olympic Shooting Centre. 

The 25-year-old, who skipped the opening ceremony in order to rest ahead of her competition, will be eager to make her second appearance at the Games count.

Currently ranked world No 17 in the event, Ser will face fierce competition among the 51-strong field, including the likes of world No 1 and reigning European champion Andrea Arsovic (Serbia) and China's Yi Siling (3), who clinched gold in London four years ago. 

At the 2012 London Games, Ser, who competed on an unused quota place, finished in 24th spot and did not qualify for the final. 

“In 2012, I didn’t feel that (I belonged) because of the wildcard,” she revealed. “I didn’t feel that I was better as they were way better than me. Now (after qualifying), I feel we are at the same level, my technical skills have improved and I feel more solid.”

Her coach Kirill Ivanov, a former world champion and 1988 Olympics bronze medallist (rifle 3P), believes she can deliver.

“She is a talented shooter…She has improved in every area – in technique, tactics, psychologically,” said the Russian. “Everybody has a chance at a medal at the Olympics. Usually the athletes who are successful are those with power, fire, ambition and motivation. We are working on this…she has improved well and I can say this improvement has come faster than many other athletes.”

Ser’s approach is to remain calm. “My aim is to execute my shots well, and finish higher than 2012,” she said. 

“If I do well, I will get a chance of going into the final, fight with the seven athletes and compete for (podium) spots.”

Stay tuned for more updates.