Paralympics Exclusive Q&A: Marco De La Rosa, USA Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1

By: Daphane Cassidy, NSSF Staff

As the Paris 2024 Paralympics draw near, Marco De La Rosa, an exceptional athlete in men’s air pistol, prepares to showcase his talent on the global stage.

The road to the Paralympic Games is one paved with determination, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. For Marco De La Rosa, a distinguished USA Shooting Paralympic athlete and Marine Corps veteran, this journey began in an unexpected and harrowing way. After sustaining a life-changing injury while heroically attempting to stop a robbery, Marco was medically retired from the Corps. His involvement with Paralyzed Veterans of America led him to discover a passion for shooting sports. From his initial exposure to the sport at a San Antonio chapter to receiving mentorship from coaches nationwide, Marco’s journey is a testament to his dedication and passion.

As we highlight the athletes representing the United States in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, Marco’s story stands out as a source of inspiration and hope. Learn more about Marco De La Rosa’s experiences as he aims to achieve paralympic success in Paris.

How did you get started in shooting sports? Can you describe your journey from starting in shooting sports to becoming a Paralympic athlete?

“It was 2015 at the San Antonio Audie L Murphy VA Hospital. They had an expo on air rifles/pistols, and the pistol got my attention cause it was much harder, in my view lol. I then went to the National Veterans wheelchair games in Dallas in 2015. I was noticed and sent to a camp in Los Angeles, where they got me in touch with the para coach. I went to Fort Benning for my first competition with the team and did well; the following year, I went to Poland and placed second. That year, I made it to the Paralympics in Brazil.”

Marco De La Rosa, with teammates YanXiao Gong and Mike Tagliapietra at the 2023 Parapan American Games. Image Source: (USA Shooting/Brittany Nelson)

How has your training regimen evolved since qualifying for the 2024 Paralympics? Can you describe a typical day of training in preparation for the Paralympics?

“It has gone from 3-4 times a week to pretty much every day, and it’s different, from dry fire to reading about mental control.”

Marco De La Rosa shooting at the U.S. Paralympic Trials. Image Source: (USA Shooting/Brittany Nelson)

How does it feel to prepare for the Paralympics, and what does the opportunity mean to you?

What are your goals and aspirations for the Paris 2024 Paralympics Games?

“I want to do my best and come out happy and content that I did well cause of my training.”

Marco De La Rosa with Gold and teammate YanXiao Gong with Bronze at the P1 Men’s Air Pistol SH1 during the 2023 Parapan American Games. Image Source: (USA Shooting/Brittany Nelson)

What advice would you give to aspiring shooting sports athletes to hope to compete at the Paralympic level in the future?

“Failure is part of the process, practice is a must, and the mental part is super important.”

Marco De La Rosa’s journey from a courageous Marine Corps veteran to a seasoned Paralympic athlete underscores the profound impact of dedication and mental fortitude. His heroic actions, which led to his injury, set him on a path of discovery and triumph in the world of shooting sports. As he prepares to compete in Paris, his story not only exemplifies the spirit of the Paralympic Games but also serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for veterans and aspiring athletes alike.

As we look forward to the 2024 Paralympic Games, Marco’s journey reminds us that with passion and resilience, extraordinary achievements are within reach, and every challenge can be a stepping stone to greatness.

Follow and support Marco and the USA Shooting Athletes as they compete in the Paralympic Games this summer.

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Team USA Feature| The Marines set up a Foundation for Marco De La Rosa

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