Johnathan looks to Asian meet in Kuwait to earn ticket for Tokyo Olympics.

KUALA LUMPUR: Pistol shooter Johnathan Wong (pic) is hoping to confirm his Olympic ticket at theAsianShootingChampionships in Kuwait before he leaves for the Philippines SEA Games from Nov 30-Dec 11.

Johnathan is hoping to win one of the three Olympic quota spots in the men’s 10m air pistol event at the Asian meet from Oct 21-28.

If Johnathan succeeds in his mission, it will be his second Olympic appearance.

He made his Olympic debut in Rio de Janeiro in 2016 and finished 28th in the men’s 10m air pistol event. Hoang Xuan Vinh won the competition to become Vietnam’s first-ever Olympic gold medallist.

“It has been pretty quiet this year as we did not go to many competitions but there will be two important international assignments coming up,” said Johnathan.

“The Asian meet is important as it’s the last chance to qualify for the Olympics on merit.

“I need to shoot above 580 points to have a shot at getting into the top-eight final. Making the final is the priority to fight for one of the three spots.

“The Vietnam shooter has yet to qualify but Japan, South Korea, India and China have already booked their tickets. I have a good chance but I need to make the final first,” said the 27-year-old, who has a personal best of 585 points.

As for the SEA Games in Manila, Johnathan will be defending his 10m air pistol title but reckons he is in for a tough fight against the Vietnamese shooters.

“I think the challenge for the gold will be among Xuan Vinh, another Vietnam shooter Tran Cau Tung and myself.

“It will be a close fight as any of the finalists can win,” he added.