Hu Mingyao's journey is a testament to the power of love and perseverance. After leading China to gold in goalball at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, in October 2023, Hu took a significant personal step by proposing to his girlfriend.
The joy in his life continued when, on August 1, he welcomed a baby girl into his family. Reflecting on these life changes, Hu shared with China Media Group (CMG), \"It's a quick change of identity. There were happy surprises, expectations, but also fears. My feelings were complicated.\"
At 29, Hu is a seasoned athlete preparing rigorously for the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympics. China is fielding a strong team with six male and six female athletes competing in goalball. Hu's dedication is evident in his relentless training alongside his teammates, despite the physical toll it takes. \"In goalball, players can't see anything and have to determine the ball's position using hearing and touch. This often results in bruises from the repeated impact of the ball,\" he explained.
Balancing athletic commitments and personal life hasn't been easy. Hu's wife, a constant source of support, resides near the training base, attending his practices daily. \"There was very limited time I could spend with her because of what I do,\" Hu admitted.
China's goalball team earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021, and their primary competition in Paris is expected to be Brazil, the defending champions. Hu emphasized, \"Brazil are still our biggest opponents this time. They are the reigning Paralympic gold medalists and won the World Championships. We lost to them at both events.\" Determined to achieve a better outcome, Hu is more motivated than ever.
When asked about her hopes for Hu, his wife expressed her desire for him to fulfill his dreams and return home safely, highlighting the personal sacrifices made behind every athlete's success.
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Love, courage enable goalball player Hu Mingyao to overcome hardships
cgtn.com
