The Asian Shooting Confederation (ASC) is committed to its goal of helping the continent’s shooters to be on par with the world’s best, according to Duaij Al Othaibi, the organisation’s Secretary General.

Al Othaibi, welcoming the shooters and officials at the opening ceremony of the 14th Asian Shooting Championship at the Lusail Shooting Range, said the only way to achieve that goal was through a concerted and united effort from the continent’s various federations.

“Shooting has increased in popularity in Asia but we have a long way to go. It’s important that federations encourage each other and share ideas on a regular basis to achieve our goal,” he said.

President of the Qatar Shooting and Archery Association (QSAA) and newly-elected Vice President of the Asian Shooting Confederation, Ali Mohammed Al Kuwari, was optimistic that the growth of Asian shooters would be evident when the competition unfolds from Tuesday.

“We hope the high level of competition at this championship will reflect the development of shooting sport in Asia,” he said.

Al Othaibi also expressed his appreciation towards Qatar for hosting the Asian event.

“The Asian Shooting Confederation expresses its gratitude to the Emir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the government of Qatar and the QSAA. We appreciate the dedicated effort of the QSAA Board members and officials,” he said.

The final hall, a newly constructed structure near the entrance of the range, was the venue of the simple and short ceremony.

Sheikh Saud bin Ali Al Thani, the first Vice President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), declared the championships open. QOC Secretary General Jassim Rashid Al Beunain was also present.

A brief cultural performance by Qatari children marked the conclusion of the programme, with the continent’s shooters taking over the stage from Tuesday.