Smiling made his debut for Latvia at the 2000 Paralympic Games in Sydney, Australia. He was one of two Latvian athletes to win the National Paralympic Committee's first medals at these Games. He claimed bronze in both the men's F52 shot put and F52 discus, while Armands Lizbovskis won bronze in the men's T13 long jump.

Paralympic Success

Smiling is one of three Para athletics competitors to have won a medal at all six Paralympic Games from 2000 to 2020. He secured Latvia's first Paralympic gold medal by winning the men's F52 discus at the 2004 Games in Athens. His consistent performance has made him a prominent figure in Para athletics.

Training Regimen

Smiling usually trains four to five times per week. During training camps, he increases his sessions to up to 12 per week. His dedication to maintaining a "healthy mind in a healthy body" has been a cornerstone of his athletic philosophy.

Awards and Recognition

In 2023, Smiling was named Latvian Male Para Athlete of the Year at the Three Star Awards. He and Para archer Ieva Melle were flag bearers for Latvia at the opening ceremony of the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo. In 2012, he was honoured as Latvian Male Athlete of the Year for his gold and silver medals at the London Paralympics.

Leadership Roles

Beyond his athletic achievements, Smiling has served as vice president of the Latvian Paralympic Committee and president of the Latvian Sports Federation for Persons with Disabilities. His leadership roles reflect his commitment to advancing sports for persons with disabilities in Latvia.

Smiling's journey from an athlete encouraged by his mother to a decorated Paralympian and sports administrator is inspiring. His contributions to Para athletics and sports administration continue to impact Latvia's sporting community positively.