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Zhang Tianxin, a native of Pinghu in Jiaxing, East China's Zhejiang province, clinched a bronze medal in the men's individual compound bow W1 event on Sept 1 at the Paris Paralympic Games, defeating his Italian counterpart and securing the first medal for a Jiaxing athlete at this year's Paralympics.

Prior to this, Zhang had topped the rankings with a record-breaking score of 674 points in the qualification round.

The competition commenced with Zhang delivering two impressive 10-point shots, instantly establishing a 7-point lead over his opponent. Ultimately, Zhang triumphed with a score of 138-126, claiming the bronze medal in a remarkable display of skill and composure.

Aged 26, Zhang is classified as a level-two physically disabled athlete. A sudden illness during his childhood left him unable to walk normally. Despite this, he has maintained an optimistic outlook on life, demonstrating a willingness to explore new opportunities and a strong commitment to learning.

In March 2017, Zhang embarked on a journey to the Hangzhou Sports Training School with aspirations of becoming an athlete. Always curious, Zhang decided to try his hand at archery, despite having no prior experience in the sport. His natural talent quickly caught the eye of coaches, leading to his selection as a W1-level athlete at the age of 19.

In 2021, Zhang clinched the gold medal in the archery W1 mixed team event at the Tokyo Paralympics.

Jiaxing archer Zhang Tianxin wins a bronze medal in the men's individual compound bow W1 at Paris Paralympics on Sept 1. [Photo/jiaxingren.com]