Watching their formidable international opponents has been a major part of their training.
“Initially, I learned through observing international competitions live and via video recordings, later complemented by coaching guidance and specialised physical training,” said Zhang, reflecting on the technical adjustments she has had to make.
“Altering my established reflex bow muscle-power habits proved a lengthy process, requiring continuous adaptation to new technical demands through accumulating arrow counts and meticulous study of techniques.”
“By watching international competition videos and incorporating coaching guidance, I increased my arrow-drawing practice and intensified specialised physical conditioning training,” echoed Ding.
For the pair, an already huge occasion is made even more compelling by the story of idols becoming rivals.
If competing in a major world event isn’t enough, neither athlete made China’s team for the Gwangju 2025 Hyundai World Archery Championships – two younger archers, Wang Jiuyi and Li Mingxing, represented the nation’s compound interests there.
Compound presents a second chance for these former star recurve archers. Causing an upset against any competitor in Nanjing would put them firmly on the road to LA.
“It will definitely feel different [from recurve],” said Zhang. “I love the atmosphere of the finals and am really looking forward to the competition.”
“I believe enjoying the process is what matters most,” she concluded.
