Shooting star dazzles with fourth title

The short-gun expert began the day at the National Sports Complex Shooting Range with two golds already under her belt - from the 10m air pistol individual and team events.

The 20-year-old Bangkokian then took aim over the longer distance and shot a Games-record-equalling 582 to lead team-mates Nerissa Yoksuwan (567), and Piyathip Ruangpanyawut (544) to a combined 1,693 and victory. The win snatched gold from close overall-title rivals Vietnam, who took silver with 1,687, leaving the bronze to Malaysia (1,672).

Tanya then entered the individual final where she shot 200.20 points for a combined score of 782.20 to eclipse the previous record of 773.2 and claim her fourth gold. Bibana Ng of Malaysia clinched silver with 778.90 while Vietnamese Pham Thi took bronze.

"I was nervous all the way through the preliminary round because I was shooting next to strong competitors and I could see their scores,'' said Tanyakorn, who can look forward to a Bt800,000 government incentive when she returns home.

"Four golds is totally beyond any expectations I had. Before the Games I never thought I would achieve this much,'' added the markswoman.

 The national shooting team has produced 10 gold medals in Vientiane so far, two shy of their target.