As a dynamic woman in my 60s, I've always believed that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing our passions and dreams. That's why I've dedicated my blog to sharing my sports activities, hoping to inspire ladies of my age to stay active and chase their dreams relentlessly.
The Hong Kong leg of the 2024 World Triathlon Cup, held on Sunday, March 24, 2024 was a historic event that I had the privilege of participating in. It was the first-ever World Triathlon Cup in Hong Kong, and the stunning Victoria Harbour provided a breathtaking backdrop for the elite Sprint Distance event. Starting from Wan Chai Promenade, athletes swam, cycled, and ran along the city's shoreline, with sky-rise buildings and the iconic Hong Kong Observation Wheel enhancing the scenic beauty of the course.
This competition serves as a crucial step in the Olympic qualification process, offering athletes the opportunity to secure their place at the Olympic Games in Paris. About 60 world-class athletes competed in both the men's and women's events. Hong Kong proudly sent four male and one female athlete to represent the vibrant city. The course was a standard world triathlon sprint distant: a 750-meter swim, followed by a 20-kilometer bike ride, and capped off with a 5-kilometer run.
In the male race, Alberto Gonzalez Garcia (Spain) secured his inaugural World Cup victory in a dramatic fashion. In the decisive stage, he capitalized on an emerging chance and swiftly made his move. Outpacing his competitors Spanish Antonio Serrat Seoane and Japanese Kenji Nener in the final sprint, he clinched the win with a 5-second lead.
In a remarkable display of athleticism at the women's competition, Sian Rainsley of Great Britain outpaced the formidable American pair, Katie Zaferes and Kirsten Kasper, clinching her first-ever triumph at such a prestigious tier.
Following the elite race, I took part in the Age Group Race. On what turned out to be a record-breaking hot day, with temperatures soaring to 31.5 degrees Celsius - a record-breaking temperature for March since 1884, we embarked on our own challenging triathlon journey. Unlike the Elite race, our bike and run routes were modified due to traffic restrictions—a common adjustment in bustling cities like Hong Kong.
The swim was a welcome relief from the heat, but it was on the bike course where the real test began. The technical route required us to complete five loops, each featuring four sharp 180-degree turns. This demanded our utmost attention to avoid collisions with fellow competitors and to keep track of the number of loops completed—a task made more difficult by no markings for turning points A through D.
The run was an ordeal in itself. A mere 5 kilometers felt like an eternity under the scorching sun. Each kilometer was a battle against the heat. The lack of clear markings for turns E through I added to the challenge, leaving us somewhat bewildered about our exact path to the finish line.
Despite these hurdles, crossing that finish line was an exhilarating experience that reinforced my belief: no matter our age, we can overcome any obstacle with determination and grit.
This race was more than just a competition; it was a testament to endurance, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of all participants who braved the heat to achieve their goals.
And let's not forget: Hong Kong is a city worth visiting. Beyond the race, its beauty and culture make it an unforgettable destination.
I'm so thrilled to have had Hong Kong cycling legend Mr. Wong Kam Po, the five-time Olympian (the most of any Hong Kong athlete) and much-lauded sports icon, present me with the award. His achievements have always been an inspiration to me, and receiving recognition from such an esteemed figure was truly an honor that added to this unforgettable experience.
To all my fellow seniors out there and dream chasers: let this be your inspiration, never stop believing in yourself. Keep moving forward, stay active, stay hydrated, and remember—there's no finish line in the race of life.
Explore the key moments >>> World Triathlon Cup 2024
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