Para archer and television presenter Aydin preparing to take spotlight at Paris 2024

Yigit Caner Aydin is ready to compete at his first Paralympic Games in Paris 29 May 2024
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A male Para archer aims at a target during competition
Yigit Caner Aydin is set to compete at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which open on 28 August.
ⒸWorld Archery
By World Archery

Para archer Yigit Caner Aydin is aiming to take the spotlight at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which open on 28 August. 

A World Archery Para Champion from Dubai 2022, he is also known as a television presenter in Turkiye. He is aiming to create change in his country by working as one of the first presenters in a wheelchair. 

“It’s a role that I take great pride in,” said Aydin. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to have the opportunity to represent diversity and inclusivity in the media industry and to be able to inspire others who may be facing similar challenges.

“It’s a field that I’m passionate about and I’m definitely open to exploring further opportunities in television presenting.”

 

Next stop: Paris 2024

Aydin’s efforts, however, are now firmly on preparing for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. He obtained a slot for Turkiye after winning gold in the men's individual W1 event at the final qualification tournament in March.

Aydin shot to success in the sport eight years after taking it up. @World Archery

This feat is on top of a remarkable season for the 31-year-old athlete, coming second at the European continental qualification tournament for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in August 2023.

“I’ve been working on fine-tuning my technique and building up my strength and endurance,” said Aydin when asked what he’s been trying to improve this season.

It was the result in Dubai, however, which capped Aydin’s hard work and training not just this season, but since he failed to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

“This year’s quota tournament in Dubai was very special for me, as it renewed my self-confidence and made me forget the impossible,” the Turkish Para archer said. “The three 10-point shots I made in a row in the last end brought me the moment I had been waiting for years. 

“Winning both the quota and the gold medal in the tournament was indescribable for me."

Aydin is also known as a TV presenter in Turkiye. @World Archery

 

An athlete, presenter and philanthropist

It’s not only Para archery Aydin has competed though, with the Trabzon-born athlete having been a part of the 2023 Conquest Cup last year in the compound men category. While he lost in the first round in Istanbul, Aydin is intending to participate in more tournaments for able-bodied athletes following the Paralympics.

“It’s definitely something I’m open to considering,” he said. “It would depend on various factors including my schedule, physical condition, and the opportunities available.”

“Ultimately, my main focus right now is on the Paralympics, but I’m always looking for ways to continue growing as an athlete and exploring new opportunities in archery.”

Outside of his sporting and television endeavours, Aydin regularly does charity work hoping to inspire the next wave of Para archers in Turkiye through his own social responsibility projects.

One of which is called "Tekkerenk" where colourful covers are designed for wheelchair users.

The aim of this project, which combines the Turkish words for ‘wheel’ and ‘colour’, is to visualise the users’ stories with the covers and ensure that people who use wheelchairs can own their stories and participate in social life without fear.

Aydin is aiming to become a role model for children with disabilities. @World Archery

From his own experiences, Aydın sees the value in growing confidence for children with disabilities, and he is passionate about projects responsible for social change like Tekkerenk.

“As someone who has faced obstacles and barriers in my own life, I know first-hand the impact that positive role models and support systems can have on a child’s life.”

“By participating in social responsibility projects, I hope to inspire and empower children to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams, regardless of any obstacles they may face.”

“Children are the future, and investing in their well-being and development is crucial for building a better world.”

It has been a sharp trajectory in Para archery for Aydin, having only started eight years ago, he now finds himself preparing for the sport’s biggest prize, the Paralympic Games. 

But the three years before then were the toughest times of his life after he sustained a spinal cord injury.

Aydin thanks his family for supporting him after he sustained a spinal cord injury. @World Archery

Aydin gives his flowers to his family for helping him the most whilst he learnt to deal with this life-changing injury.

“My family provided unwavering love, support, and encouragement, which gave me the strength and motivation to keep pushing forward, even when things seemed improbable.”

“Their belief in me and their willingness to stand by my side every step of the way was incredibly empowering.”

Thanks to his dedication in Para archery, Aydin is now aiming to be a sporting role model for Turkiye, as well as a recognised philanthropist and television presenter.

“I refused to let adversity define me or limit my potential.”

“And instead, I chose to channel my energy into rebuilding my life and pursuing my passions with renewed vigour and purpose.”

 

Book your tickets for the Paralympic Games by visiting the Paris 2024 ticketing website.