Shooting might not make Zhang Cuiping richer, but it definitely makes her happier and more confident.

The Chinese women's sports rifle shooter, who could not walk after suffering infantile paralysis at the age of three, said she used to like to stay in her house day and night as she feared people would sneer at her and mock her.

However, picking up a gun for the first time in 2003 changed her life.

"Shooting gives me more smiles and confidence," said the 23-year-old from Hebei province. "I dared not go out and be seen by other people before. After I picked up the sport and found I could be recognized at the range, I become confident and positive about life.

"When you can do something as good, or ever better, than the normal people, you don't feel you are different any more."

Zhang's skills improved drastically and after only three years she had made the national team.

During the Beijing Paralympic Games in 2008, Zhang won two silver medals and a bronze.

Glittering achievements on the international stage and good relationships with her coaches and teammates make her feel life is beautiful.

"I'm satisfied with how it is going right now. I can go to foreign countries and enjoy the different cultures and scenes. I like to go out shopping and sing karaoke with my teammates."

Asked if she is preparing for the 2012 Paralympic Games, Zhang said that had not yet crossed her mind.

"I will not push myself to ask for more. I will just try to do my best and not care about the results. I think, compared to other disabled persons, I am very lucky and there are no regrets in my life."

China Daily

(China Daily 12/15/2010)