In a recent interview, we had the opportunity to highlight the extraordinary accomplishments of 37 athletes from Zhejiang who proudly represented China at the Paris Olympics, where they collectively secured 8 gold medals and 20 additional medals across six events. This achievement underscores Zhejiang’s long-standing tradition of winning golds at every Olympic Games. The event, titled “Olympic Champions from Zhejiang Heading to the World,” was held in Hangzhou and offered us a chance to uncover the inspiring stories behind these athletes’ journeys by visiting their various training centers and academies.
Reflecting on history, it was at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics that Wu Xiaoxuan clinched Zhejiang’s first-ever Olympic gold medal, ushering in a new era for sports in the region. Over the past four decades, Zhejiang has produced an impressive 24 Olympic champions and is set to reach a total of 31 gold medals by the time the 2024 Paris Games arrive. This remarkable legacy is a testament to the hard work and determination of countless athletes and coaches across generations.
The swimming team from Zhejiang has been a particularly shining example. Among the 31 swimmers representing China at the Paris Olympics, 9 hailed from Zhejiang, marking the highest representation of any province. These talented athletes made waves, with 7 of them stepping onto the podium to claim a total of 2 golds, 2 silvers, and 4 bronzes, significantly enhancing China’s standing in the sport.
Athletes like Wang Shun and Xu Jiayu have made multiple Olympic appearances, while newcomers such as Pan Zhanle and Fei Liwei embarked on their Olympic journeys. The blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers showcases the influential role Zhejiang plays in strengthening China’s swimming strength. Behind this success are committed coaches like Zhu Zhigeng and Xu Guoyi, along with younger mentors like Li Zhuhai and Li Guangyuan, eager to carry forward their storied legacy.
This theme of knowledge transfer permeates throughout Zhejiang’s water sports. The championship hall at the Zhejiang Provincial Water Sports Management Center is adorned with trophies and medals, while athletes train diligently on the stunning Qiandao Lake.
One particularly touching story comes from Lei Wenbin, coach of canoeist Ji Bowen, who clinched a gold in the men’s kayak doubles 500 meters event. Having coached Ji since his teenage years, their bond transcends that of a typical coach-athlete relationship; they share a connection akin to family. As Ji crossed the finish line with a remarkable lead, the usually stoic Lei shed tears of joy after spending nearly 500 days away from home in preparation for this moment.
Ji’s triumph fulfilled his Olympic dream, continuing the proud tradition of Zhejiang’s water sports. The province has produced notable canoeing champions, like Meng Guanjian, who won gold at the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Olympics, underscoring Zhejiang’s lasting impact on the sport.
The interaction between experienced athletes and emerging talent captures the essence of skill and sportsmanship in Zhejiang’s badminton scene as well. At the Paris Olympics, the renowned “Queen of Badminton,” Li Lingwei, was elected to the International Olympic Committee, while national team coach Xia Xuanze provided critical guidance during competitions featuring athletes like Huang Yaqiong and Zheng Siwei. Their shared foundation in the Zhejiang badminton circuit highlights the rich legacy they are part of.
Badminton remains a traditional strength for the province. According to Wang Lin, head coach of the women’s badminton team, the sport thrives due to the unwavering commitment of successive generations who selflessly impart their knowledge. As a former world champion and daughter of a previous head coach, Wang embodies this legacy, continuing to mentor young athletes with strategies she learned from her own career.
“Badminton has significant market appeal, and many talented retired athletes could easily transition into lucrative careers outside of the sport. However, it’s essential for them to choose to stay and cultivate the next generation within the provincial team,” Wang remarked.
