Zhejiang Olympians return to Hangzhou, inspire students

Several Zhejiang Olympians returned to Hangzhou on Sept 3 after the Paris Olympics, where they took part in a special event at Huanglong Sports Center. Among them were swimming stars Pan Zhanle and Xu Jiayu, shooter Huang Yuting, badminton duo Zheng Siwei and Huang Yaqiong, and canoeist Ji Bowen.

During the event, the athletes donated their Olympic gear to the Zhejiang Provincial Sports Bureau and shared their personal Olympic stories with young athletes in the audience. Huang Yuting donated the shooting jacket she wore when she won her gold medal, describing how challenging it was to wear in both cold and hot conditions. The event coincided with her 18th birthday, making her Olympic gold medal an unforgettable gift.

Zheng Siwei and Huang Yaqiong, the "Ya-Si" badminton pair, donated all of their equipment, including clothing, shoes, and rackets. Zheng highlighted the rigorous demands of their training, with frequent gear changes to prevent injuries. Ji Bowen, who won gold in the men's 500-meter double canoe, donated the paddle that helped him clinch the title, emphasizing the intense training regimen required for success.

The athletes also encouraged the youngsters to uphold their values and strive for excellence. Following the event, they visited local schools, including Zhejiang University, to share their Olympic experiences and inspire students. The Olympians even played a game of badminton using kitchen utensils, showcasing their playful side and athletic prowess.