Shooting Competition
U.S. Paralympic Team Shines with Four Medals at WSPS Al Ain 2025 World Cup
U.S. Paralympic Team Shines with Four Medals at WSPS Al Ain 2025 World Cup
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
The U.S. Paralympic Team delivered another strong international performance at the World Shooting Para Sport (WSPS) Al Ain 2025 World Cup, held at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club in the United Arab Emirates from October 25 to November 5, 2025. Nine athletes represented Team USA, two in pistol and seven in air rifle and smallbore events, earning a total of four medals, one gold, one silver, and two bronze, along with multiple top-eight finishes. This underscores the teams growing depth and competitive edge on the world stage. The strong results in Al Ain highlight how the U.S. Paralympic Team is building momentum towards the LA28 Paralympic Games, demonstrating consistent talent across disciplines. The medal-winning performances began with the gold for Jazmin Almlie-Ryan and Ben Hays in the R11 Mixed Team 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 event. The duo showcased remarkable precision and composure, narrowly defeating the United Arab Emirates in a thrilling final match that concluded with a close score of 1614. Their outstanding execution under intense pressure not only secured them the top position but also set the tone for Team USA's overall success. Continuing Team USA's commendable showing, the R6 Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 Team, consisting of Steven Hutchcraft, Landon Ruggera, and Zach Jackson, brought home a silver medal. With a total score of 1825.1, they finished just shy of Thailands 1827.6, showcasing strong performances throughout the event and underlining their focus and discipline against fierce international competition. Landon Ruggera further contributed to Team USAs medal tally by winning a bronze in the R6 Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 individual event with a solid score of 225.4. He finished behind Spains Juan Saavedra Reinaldo and Thailands Atidet Intanon, who secured gold, demonstrating Ruggera's determination and skill in a highly competitive field. Another bronze was clinched by the R5 Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Team, comprised of Jadon Nafziger, Ben Hays, and Jazmin Almlie-Ryan, achieving a team score of 1893.5. Their performance secured them third place, trailing behind competitors from Thailand and China. Team USA saw several athletes finishing just shy of podium placements, underscoring the depth of talent within the squad. Zach Jackson finished 5th in the R7 Mens 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1, while Taylor Farmer placed 8th in the R8 Womens 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1, both showing that the U.S. team is not only competing but contending at the highest levels. This performance not only signals strong preparation for the upcoming Paralympic Games but indicates the efficacy of the training and developmental programs put in place for these athletes. As the U.S. Paralympic Team continues its journey toward excellence, events like WSPS Al Ain deliver valuable international competition experience, showcasing the capabilities of the athletes and building the anticipation for the upcoming LA28 games. The commitment to long-term training and improvement is evident in the consistent performances being delivered by the team, which will undoubtedly serve to strengthen their resolve and focus as they prepare for the challenges ahead. As the Paralympic community watches these developments, it is important to note that while the successes at this event are promising, they are just a stepping stone towards greater inclusivity and visibility in competitive shooting sports.