Two days before shooter Aleksi Leppä was to make his Olympic debut in 10 meter air rifle, he received the news. The mother had just landed and called her son – father and coach Marko Leppä, 59, died on the flight after a heart attack.
– He fixed everything for me. He sacrificed his life for me to succeed. I would never have been here without him, Aleksi adds NRK.
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Watch the tearful interview in the player.
Yesterday, the two-time world champion Aleksi Leppä stood on the starting line to begin his qualification in the 10 meter air rifle. With a black mourning band around his arm, he shot all 60 shots, finishing 22nd and missing the final.
Despite the result, he had done it – the 29-year-old had made his Olympic debut. The feelings were everywhere and nowhere.
– It’s the hardest thing I’ve done in my entire life. It’s so big for me to be here, but dad didn’t get to see me shoot, I think he would have been proud, says Aleksi.
Aleksi’s father Marko Leppä. Photo: Finnish Shooting Association.
Will compete more
Marko Leppä was both trainer and father to Aleksi but highly involved in the shooting world not only for his son. He organized competitions and was an international referee in the sport.
He has his mother and girlfriend there for support. On Wednesday, 50 meters await.
– It’s not easy, I’m just trying… There have been a few tough days but I can’t do more than take it day by day, says Aleksi.