Is Participating in SLI Better Than Traditional Competitions?

New Delhi, July 23 (NationPress) At the age of 50, Czech trap shooter David Kostelecky stands out as one of the most seasoned athletes eager to join the upcoming Shooting League of India (SLI). A two-time Olympic gold medallist, with victories in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and a silver in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Kostelecky began his shooting journey at 14 and still exudes enthusiasm for this unprecedented tournament.

Kostelecky shared that his passion for team events drives his excitement for the league. "I believe it focuses more on the teams rather than individual shooters. I cherish this aspect because it's something I feel is lacking in my sport and career," he expressed.

"Being part of a team and aiming for victory together is exhilarating, as I have spent my life competing for myself and my nation. I feel our sport needs more team-oriented competitions. I also enjoy competing in mixed events at World Cups. For me, engaging in this league surpasses regular competitions; this is my motivation," he elaborated.

Having commenced his shooting career 36 years ago, Kostelecky discussed his evolving fitness routine to maintain his performance level. Inspired by Giovanni Pellielo, who clinched gold at the 2025 ISSF Trap World Cup in Lonato at 55, Kostelecky asserts that both physical and mental fitness are key to achieving success, regardless of age.

He became the oldest Czech athlete to secure an Olympic medal in 2020, stating, "I'm pleased to acknowledge that I've adapted my fitness regimen over the years. I realized I needed to build strength, and I've witnessed the improvements in my performance. In my youth, staying fit was easier, but as I age, I have to exert more effort. I focus on diet and engage in regular exercise, including tennis and padel, to stay fit."

Kostelecky also shared a pivotal moment from 2016 when he faced vision problems that nearly ended his career. Thankfully, he found an optometrist who significantly improved his eyesight, allowing him to continue shooting for nearly a decade more.

"Vision is crucial in our sport. An optometrist can assess your vision in a competitive context, ensuring you see depth and other essential factors. This expertise has greatly benefited me as I dealt with significant eye issues. I'm now using contact lenses, and this specialist effectively saved my career in 2016," the 2015 Larnaca World Cup gold medallist explained.

He concluded by expressing eagerness to collaborate with elite shooting talents globally, stating, "I believe it's fantastic for the community to have such an event. Even after knowing someone for 10-15 years, you don't truly know them. However, when you join a team, you have the chance to become genuine friends and comrades. That sense of camaraderie is invaluable, and I think this event can unite us all."