THE equestrian events of China’s 15th National Games commenced yesterday at the Shenzhen Guangming International Equestrian Center, with the Shanghai team clinching the first gold medal in the team dressage event — the first gold medal awarded at the venue after the Games opening ceremony. Held in the center, the nation’s largest-span timber structure sports building nestled against a backdrop of lush mountains, the 10-day equestrian competition will see the nation’s top riders and their horses compete. The competition features three disciplines: dressage, eventing, and jumping, with each awarding both team and individual medals for a total of six golds. Yesterday was dedicated to team dressage, which also served as the qualifier for the individual dressage event. The Shanghai team, comprised of Xu Mofei, Gu Zhanzhao, Rao Jiayi, and Wu Yue, demonstrated formidable skill and consistency to secure the top spot on the podium. The Xinjiang and Guangdong teams took the silver and bronze medals, respectively. Notably, the victorious Shanghai squad is one of the youngest in the field, with an average age of just 20.25 years. Among them, 17-year-old Xu delivered a standout performance, tying for first place individually with a score of 69.294. Her teammate, 17-year-old Gu Zhanzhao, followed closely in fourth place with 68.147 points, while Rao and Wu placed within the top 15. This victory marks a significant achievement for the young team. Wu, at 20, was the only member who has previously participated in the National Games, having won bronze in the team dressage event during the 14th Games. The Guangdong team, which has retained its gold medal-winning lineup from the 14th National Games, was unable to defend its title on home turf. Veteran rider Gu Bing, a double gold medalist in the team and individual dressage events at the 14th Games, scored 66.765 in his first outing. “The new generation of Chinese equestrian talent has grown up,” Gu Bing remarked after his ride. “The young riders are very capable. They are the future of Chinese equestrian sports. However, in equestrian events, you never know the outcome until the very last moment. I very much look forward to the upcoming individual competition,” he added. (SD News) | 