In the early morning (HK local time) of July 28, 2024, Vivian Kong Man-wai, a Hong Kong épée fencer, won the first gold medal for Hong Kong in this year’s Paris Olympics.
In the final, Kong’s opponent was Auriane Mallo-Breton from France, the host nation. Kong was once trailing 1-7 in the third round, but she kept her nerve and gradually made up the deficit. The game was leveled at 12-12 when it went into sudden death. In the end, she won the decider strike and defeated her opponent.
Kong shed tears with joy after the game and said, “At long last, I didn’t lose. I finally won this time.” She said she did not want to “lose badly” or fail to show the Hong Kong spirit.”
She said that playing on the glamorous floor of the Grand Palais in Paris was her dream come true. So, she must play her best and not let the coach and the team down, she said. She also thanked the Hong Kong audience for watching her play despite the time difference.
She added that apprehension about winning or losing had caused her stress in the past. “Actually, after working so hard, I should be relaxed because I have done everything I can, and everyone around me is doing their best to help me win. Then why should I still be nervous?”
Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, CEO of the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC), congratulated Kong on his blog for winning Hong Kong’s first gold medal in this Olympics and the third Olympic gold medal in Hong Kong’s history. He praised her for fully demonstrating Hong Kong’s “can-do” spirit as she went from 1-7 down to 12-12 and eventually won the gold medal by 13-12 during extra time.
He pointed out that the HKJC supports Olympic athletes through the “Jockey Club Athletes Incentive Award Scheme,” recognizing their efforts and dedication. Kong will be awarded HK$6 million (US$768,000).
The MTR Corporation also congratulated Kong on winning the gold medal, describing her achievements as a combination of remarkable skills, fighting spirit, and perseverance. As a token of appreciation, it will give her a lifetime MTR ticket.
The MTR Corporation also stated that all Hong Kong athletes who won medals in this year’s Olympics and the upcoming Paris Paralympic Games would also receive free lifetime MTR tickets. “We hope all athletes will continue to work hard and achieve greater success in the competition,” the MTR spokesperson said.
Source link
Add comment