Chen Hongjie, a 34-year-old Chinese high jumper, is set to compete in his fifth Paralympic Games as the event kicks off in Paris on Wednesday. As one of the oldest members of China's track and field team, Chen's journey is a testament to resilience and determination.
At the age of seven, Chen endured a life-altering electric shock that resulted in the loss of his right arm and left leg. Raised by his mother, who passed away in 2009, Chen's early challenges only fueled his passion for athletics.
Chen made his Paralympic debut in 2008 in Beijing, where he clinched a bronze medal in the men's F44/46 event. He continued to shine in subsequent Games, earning another bronze in London 2012 and a silver in Rio 2016.
\"I promised my mom that one day, I would win the Paralympic gold medal,\" Chen shared with China Media Group (CMG). \"Although I have aged, I don't want to give up easily. I'm older and on my way down, but I still have the belief that I can do it, and I want to keep my word.\"
Quiet and reflective, Chen rarely speaks about the pain of losing his mother. Instead, he channels his emotions into his performance, aiming to honor her memory with every jump.
Looking back, Chen considers the 2008 Beijing Paralympics his most memorable experience. He recalls being overwhelmed by nervousness and excitement, feeling his legs shake as he stepped onto the field.
\"I don't know if it will be my final Paralympics,\" Chen mused. \"But I know my body. The high jump is about explosiveness. Track and field is always friendlier to young athletes than to veterans. I'm in my 30s, which is pretty old for a high jumper, so I think it may be my final Paralympics.\"
Despite the challenges he's faced, Chen is determined to make his potential final appearance at the Paralympics count by striving for the gold medal in Paris.
Reference(s):
High jumper Chen Hongjie goes for gold in fifth Paralympic appearance
cgtn.com
