2014 Nikon Hong Kong Junior and Cadet

The Road to gold

 

Ellie Fong 10D

 

“Go! Hong Kong!”

 

On August, 10, 2014, the Elizabeth stadium lit up with enthusiasm and determination to win.  It was the final day of the Nikon Table Tennis Hong Kong Junior And Cadet Open. Athletes from all over the world were competing for that one trophy- the trophy that every athlete wishes to bring home.

 

All eyes were on table number 1; with sweat and determination were Jocelyn Wong Chin Yau and me, Ellie Fong, from Hong Kong. It was the fourth set of the cadet girls’  doubles event, and the score was 9:7.  Concentration wrapped in our fists, burning fire in our hearts, we played at the highest level of table tennis and watched in trance the scoreboard go 10:7 and 11:7.  At that moment, we were christened with joy, victory and pride.

 

The Nikon junior and cadet open is the most prominent international junior competition held annually in Hong Kong, featuring more than 150 players from 17 countries.   What a wonderful feeling to represent Hong Kong on home soil and win a gold medal in the cadet girls doubles event.  To us, it is an honour, a joy and the ultimate recognition - a recognition of our hard work and dedication. We gain not just the physical awards, but also the intangibles:  confidence, pride, happiness and fond memories.  Permanently etched in our heart, a memory that will energize us at times of setbacks; a memory that teaches us to keep fighting and never give up; and most importantly, a memory reminding us that “nothing is impossible’.

 

We entered the competition as taking up a challenge - to surmount our training standard.  Throughout the competition, Jocelyn and I cooperated well and, together, we managed to overcome difficulties, adapt to our plays against different teams, and kept advancing.  In between matches, we supported each other and reassured each other by mutual feedback. The bond and trust between us was a crucial factor of our ultimate victory.

 

One of the most remarkable experiences in the competition was to have our championship match broadcasted live, and to be interviewed by reporters. It was our pleasure and honour to receive such an extraordinary opportunity. Whilst the medal, the trophies and the awards that we have earned may have impressed my friends the most, it was the adventurous experience that has made this competition one of my most unforgettable and precious memories. This competition has indeed strengthened my determination to do my best at all times, and to pursue and fight for my dreams.

 

I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to my partner, Jocelyn, for her wonderful collaboration; my coach for his valuable instructions; my family for their timeless support and encouragement; and lastly, my school for my education, both academic and on the matters of life and morals.