SELANGOR: What began as a simple attempt to try archery has grown into a passion for Sarawak para archer Dylan Lawai Ditum, who is now preparing to make his Para SUKMA debut.
The 25-year-old, who competes in the men’s compound category, said his journey started when he decided to give archery a try before gradually developing a deeper interest in the sport.
“I came to try archery at first, and then the interest grew. From there, my passion for the sport was nurtured,” he said when met by the Sarawak Tribune at the Malaysia Paralympic Sports Excellence Centre.
Dylan has been involved in para archery for less than a year. He initially competed in the recurve category before switching to compound.
Despite his relatively short time in the sport, he is now preparing to compete at the Para SUKMA stage for the first time, an opportunity he described as a source of pride.
“I feel very proud to be able to represent the State. I hope I can bring Sarawak’s name to a higher level, especially personally, as this is an extraordinary achievement for me to reach this stage,” he said.
Dylan, whose father is Bidayuh from Padawan and mother is Kayan from Long Bemang, said representing Sarawak carried added personal significance.
He hopes his Para SUKMA debut will mark the beginning of a longer journey in archery while giving him valuable experience as he continues to develop as a compound archer.
For someone who first picked up a bow simply to try something new, Dylan has already come a long way in less than a year.
