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Australian Archers marked the end of their Paralympic campaign after duo Taymon Kenton-Smith and Imalia Oktrininda went down to Poland in the Mixed Open Recurve 1/8 Elimination Round this morning.
The pair were aiming to book their spot in the quarter-finals but the Polish pairing proved too strong, claiming 6-0 victory.
While not the result they were hoping for, the pair were proud of how they ended their maiden Paralympic Games.
“In all honesty, we both shot really well, we shot better than Poland in the ranking rounds, but that’s archery for you, it’s a cutthroat sport,” said Taymon-Smith.
“We got together to train for about a week back in April, so it’s not enough time. We had a really good time playing together but at the end of the day you do need that constant practice,” he said.
Oktrininda echoed her colleague’s comments adding: “we both did really well, considering we haven’t been able to train together in the last few months.”
Proudly wearing the green and gold fulfils a promise made by the then 14 year old Taymon-Smith to his cherished Nanna who sadly passed away in May this year.
“I promised her I would make it to the Paralympics, while she unfortunately passed away earlier this year I know she would be immensely proud of me,” said Taymon-Smith.
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Oktrininda relished the opportunity to gain experience at the Games and has aspirations for future honours.
“I’m not finished, it’s a stepping stone for the next one, I’m just soaking up the experience, learning a lot and planning for Paris 2024,” said Oktrininda.
Both Taymon-Smith and Oktrininda credited the invaluable support received from their loved ones back home as well as the broader sport and archery community.
“I want to thank my family for their support, I have put a lot of time into training. I want to thank the people who have been behind me, pushing me to be competitive including my coach, Paralympics Australia and Archery Australia,” said Oktrininda.
For Kenton Smith he added: “I’m so grateful for all the support I have received, from my loving partner, both the Australian and NSW Institute of Sport, and my family and friends back home, it’s you who made this happen for me, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
By: Amanda Scott, Paralympics Australia
Posted: 4 September 2021
