In a performance that captivated the stadium, Hong Kong's 37-year-old "Long-Distance Running Queen," Christy Yiu, delivered a lesson in perseverance at the women's 10,000-meter final of the 15th National Games on Nov.20.
As the oldest competitor in the field—19 years senior to the youngest athlete—Yiu found herself trailing from the start. Yet, the veteran runner never faltered, her steady and determined stride around the track proving more moving than any podium finish. When she finally crossed the line, the crowd erupted in a roaring ovation, honoring her unwavering spirit. She clocked a time of 36:13.23, setting a new personal best for the season.
The race was dominated by a field of tall, post-2000s-born athletes, making Yiu, the sole competitor from the 1980s, an outlier in both age and stature. After the starting gun fired, she gradually fell behind the main pack, embarking on a solitary battle against herself. Lap after lap, her resolve never wavered, her face a mask of serene determination despite running in last place.
As she pushed through the final 200 meters, a powerful wave of cheers swept through the stands. Over 50,000 spectators rose to their feet, urging her on. After crossing the finish line, Yiu acknowledged the overwhelming support with a wave and a bow, completing her personal challenge.
Speaking with reporters afterward, Yiu reflected with grace on her physical disadvantages. "Since secondary school, I knew my physique wasn't my strong suit," she said with a laugh. "Seeing the significant gap between me and other runners, I understood I wasn't the most talented. But I never once considered giving up. I told myself that even if I couldn't be the best, I would be the most persistent."
"It's this persistence that has carried me through all these years of training and competition," she shared. "I've come to realize that while talent is important, perseverance is my core strength."
Yiu confirmed to the press that this National Games is likely her last, noting that the day also marked the final race for Chinese sprinting legend Su Bingtian, who is a year her junior. "I'm also a fan of Su Bingtian," Yiu expressed. "We are both veterans who have persisted on the track for many years. I truly admire him and his steadfast dedication."
She also shared a heartfelt message for her fellow veteran: "I want to tell Su Bingtian, 'Go for it! No matter the outcome, giving your best is what counts. I hope we can both put a perfect full stop on our National Games journey.'"
(Reported by Lu Jingyi, Li Ziyan, and Ao Minhui | English Editor: Liu Yu)
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