Archery Guyana Commends Lucas Chung’s Outstanding Performance at the Junior Pan American Games Qualifier

Sunday, Mar 23

The elimination rounds of the second Qualifier for the Junior Pan American Games 2025 concluded yesterday, with 24 countries fiercely competing for a coveted spot in Asunción, Paraguay. Among them, Guyana’s Lucas Chung proudly took to the field, representing our country with skill, determination, and sportsmanship.

After a strong start in his match against Jacob Mighty of Jamaica, Chung led 2-0 after the first end. However, despite a tightly contested battle, Mighty ultimately advanced to the next round. The competition continued with eliminations from Ecuador, Trinidad and Tobago, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and Peru, leading to a thrilling final lineup featuring Bolivia, Venezuela, Cuba, and Ecuador for the championship showdown on Sunday, March 23rd.

Despite the result, Chung remains positive and determined. Reflecting on the experience, he shared:

"Competing on the world stage and achieving my personal best score of 580 is something I will always cherish. This tournament has been an incredible learning opportunity, and I am grateful for the chance to connect with fellow archers from across the Americas. I look forward to more international competitions and continuing to grow as an athlete."

Archery Guyana President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon praised Lucas Chung for his dedication, resilience, and achievement in representing Guyana on the international stage. She acknowledged that while elimination is disappointing, true champions rise after setbacks. She highlighted his 18th birthday milestone, emphasising that this is just the beginning of his journey, and expressed confidence in his continued growth and success.

She also extended heartfelt appreciation to Lucas’s family: Andrew, Christy, and Leianna, for their unwavering support, recognising their sacrifices and role in his achievements. She reassured the Chung Family who are all present in Buenos Aires, Argentina, that Lucas's experience in this competition will only propel him forward, and with their encouragement, his best is yet to come.

Vidushi reaffirmed Archery Guyana's pride in Lucas and commitment to standing by him as he continues his athletic journey.

Despite the loss, Lucas Chung performed admirably against an opponent with significantly more competition experience and the advantage of prior training camp participation. President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon acknowledged this, emphasising that Lucas still delivered a commendable performance.

She also responded to the wildcard selection update, expressing disappointment but respect for the decision and extending congratulations to Puerto Rico for securing the men’s wildcard spot. She reinforced Archery Guyana’s gratitude for the opportunity to compete at this level and the valuable experience gained.

Finally, she expressed appreciation to the Organisers in Buenos Aires and to World Archery Americas and in particular, Secretary General Mr. Sergio Font for his dedication and efforts in supporting the competition.

Archery Guyana extends its sincere appreciation to the President Munroe and Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) for their continuous support of archery and the development of young athletes. Their commitment to sport and athlete development has played a crucial role in providing opportunities like these for Guyana’s representatives to shine on the international stage.

As Lucas Chung returns home, his journey continues, fuelled by experience, resilience, and the support of his family, federation, and country. Archery Guyana stands firmly behind him, ready for the next steps ahead.