Fitness
Jethro Dionisio, 34
ACHIEVEMENT
Practical shooting: World champion, 1990, 1992, 1993: Steel Challenge World Speed Shooting, California; World champion, 1993, 1994, 1995: World Shoot-off Championship, ColoradoTrap/clay shooting: Silver, XXI SEA Games, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Silver, Asian Clay, Bangkok, Thailand; Bronze (individual and team), Asian Games, Busan, Korea
ADVICE: DO MORE WITH DISCIPLINE
At 14 Dionisio was well on his way as one of our most accomplished practical shooters.
After impressive finishes in local and international competitions, he shifted to trap shooting in 2000. He's always up for a new challenge, but he balances the exhilaration from the experience with a keen sense of discipline. It's a minimum requirement, especially for his sport. "We make use of real guns and we're using live ammunition so we could easily hurt somebody if you don't know how to use it," explains Dionisio. "Discipline is very important."
He also counts determination as crucial to the Filipino character. It's what enables us to use what's considered as weakness to our advantage. "We have to work harder compared to athletes from other countries because financially, we're not really supported, and our equipment isn't at par with theirs... pero iba ang will ng Pinoy."
TRAINING TIP: RELAX AND RUN
Shooting is both a mental and physical game, so Dionisio has made a habit out of meditation to steel his nerves. "[And] I think if you are well prepared during the competition, you won't be as nervous."
Part of his preparation goes beyond the range. Dionisio goes to the gym weekly, and jogs or runs at least 30 minutes on the track.
FINAL WORD ON WISDOM:
"I'm more mature now. I know how to pace myself. When you're young, there's no holding back—you do what you want to do. You can do well and crash at a particular tournament. I'm older so I'm more stable. I've become steadier."
» Fitness archive
Men's Health Philippines - December 2006 Issue
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