'Strive for excellence and bring glory to nation': local pupils told by national Olympic gold medalist

Local pupils cheered and exchanged clothes with national athletes as some 30 elite Chinese athletes, including Olympic gold medalists, visited Po Leung Kuk Riverain Primary School on Tuesday, sharing their championship experiences and leading students in sports training sessions.

Among the attending athletes were short-track speed skater Yang Yang, China's first Winter Olympic gold medalist; Yang Wei, Beijing Olympic all-around gymnastics champion; race-walking Olympic gold medalist Liu Hong; and Paralympic high jump champion Hou Bin.

During a sharing session, Yang Wei recounted his first competition in the United States at age 16, where unfamiliar language, surroundings, and food left him feeling isolated.

"When I saw Chinese characters on a building and then our national flag, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging," he said.

Reflecting on China's progress, Yang noted that while the nation was less developed during his early career, its global standing has since risen.

He cited foreign athletes' admiration for Chinese-branded sportswear as evidence of the country's growing influence.

Urging students to study hard and stay active, he emphasized that national pride would empower them when traveling abroad.

Yang also stressed the duty of Chinese athletes to bring glory to the nation, encouraging pupils to strive for excellence in academics and athletics.

The three-day initiative, organized ahead of the 15th National Games in the Greater Bay Area, brings 30 national elite athletes to nine Hong Kong schools for face-to-face interactions until Thursday (Apr 10).

Launched in 2012 by Yang Yang’s Champion Foundation, the program mobilizes athletes to promote sportsmanship and community service. By late 2024, it had engaged over 500 athletes in volunteering at 100-plus schools and neighborhoods, benefiting 50,000 students.

Yang Yang said Hong Kong students exceeded expectations in enthusiasm, particularly during the national anthem.

She hopes the exchanges demystify elite athletes, showing youths that perseverance leads to excellence.

"Students see champions as relatable people who worked hard to succeed," she noted, adding that the interactions also help active athletes develop post-retirement skills.

The former skater emphasized that patriotism is best instilled organically, with athletes’ pride naturally inspiring students. "We want them to feel that same honor and love for the motherland," she said.

(Ayra Wang)