Alex Hua Tian, a dedicated equestrian from the Chinese mainland, showcased his unwavering commitment at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. Competing in his fourth Olympic appearance at the age of 34, Hua Tian's journey began in Beijing 2008, where he made his debut at just 18 years old.
In Paris, Hua Tian had a promising start, securing third place in the dressage segment. However, a 15-point penalty in the cross-country phase impacted his overall standing, culminating in a 23rd-place finish. Despite the challenges, Hua Tian remains optimistic and proud of his performance.
Speaking with Greg Laffradi of CGTN Sports Scene, Hua Tian praised his horse, Chocs, describing him as \"absolutely brilliant.\" Their seven-year partnership has been pivotal, with Hua Tian emphasizing the trust and synergy they've built over time. \"Chocs was just brilliant. His dressage test was a real pleasure to be a part of,\" Hua Tian remarked.
Reflecting on his Olympic experiences, Hua Tian highlighted the confidence gained from participating in four Games. \"These games have given me and my team a tremendous amount of confidence. We've produced a world-class horse, and he's come in great condition despite past fitness challenges,\" he explained. Hua Tian expressed his belief that external circumstances influenced his final ranking, rather than a lack of performance.
Equestrian sports, though unique and traditionally less accessible than football or basketball, are gaining popularity in China. Hua Tian aspires for the 2024 Paris Games to leave a lasting legacy, inspiring children and families worldwide. \"I hope children and families around the world are inspired not just by the winners but by the stories and the horses and the background of each of the riders,\" he stated.
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Chinese equestrian Alex Hua Tian hopes Paris Games inspires children
cgtn.com
