Austen Smith, of Keller, Texas, has earned Bronze in Women’s Skeet at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre in France August 4.
Smith is no stranger to success and the podium. She has more than 20 international medals and is extremely happy to add an Olympic medal to her collection.
“I am elated. I am over the moon and loving every moment of it,” said Smith. “Just to have an Olympic medal is my dream.”
Smith is coached by four-time Olympic gold medalist Vincent Hancock. Hancock earned his fourth gold in Men’s Skeet at the Paris Games August 3.
Smith made her Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020 where she placed 10th overall. When asked what changed for her between Tokyo and Paris, she spoke about improving her mental game.
“I did a lot of mental training actually,” said Smith, who currently attends the University of Texas at Arlington. “Back then I relied a lot on my emotions, especially during major matches. I definitely focused more on that and making sure I am thinking the right things every single time I step in the station.”
Smith shot an overall qualification score of 122/125. She tied Amber Rutter, of Great Britain, in qualifications and then won a 14-point shoot-off, earning herself the number one bid for the final. In the final, Smith bested Vanessa Hockova of Slovakia, who placed fourth. You can see all the official results here.
Dania Vizzi, of Odessa, Florida, also competed in Women’s Skeet at the Paris Games. She made her Olympic debut and finished 12th with a score of 118/125. See the official results here.
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