🏇 The majestic Palace of Versailles is buzzing with excitement as Chinese equestrian stars Alex Hua Tian and Sun Huadong arrive to prep for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics!
Hua Tian, riding his 15-year-old horse Chocs, trotted into the historic stables early Thursday morning. It's Chocs's first Olympic appearance, and after a thorough health check by the Organizing Committee, they've been given the green light—both horse and rider are in tip-top shape! 🐎💪
Did you know? Paris 2024 marks Hua Tian's fourth time representing China at the Games. At 34, the London-born athlete shared that getting to France was a bit more challenging this time around due to the UK's exit from the EU.
\"It's a little bit complicated to travel from the UK to France including paperwork, health requirements, and customs over Britain's exit from the EU,\" Hua Tian said. But hey, nothing can stop a determined rider and his trusty steed! 🛣️🇬🇧🇫🇷
Meanwhile, 33-year-old Sun Huadong arrived at the Versailles stables from the Netherlands, gearing up for his second Olympic run with his horse, Lady. \"I've competed with Lady since 2018, preparing for the Tokyo Summer Olympics. She was only 11 during the Tokyo Games, and now she's 14, which is a really good age,\" Sun shared. Looks like this duo is all set to shine! ✨
With the enchanting backdrop of Versailles, these equestrian champs are ready to gallop into our hearts during Paris 2024. Can't wait to see them ride! 🥇🇨🇳
Reference(s):
Olympics: China's Alex Hua Tian, Sun Huadong arrive at Versailles
cgtn.com