Dear Parents and Students,
The 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games came to a successful close on October 4. This was not only a major Asian sporting event, but also a classroom without walls, full of growth. I hope that Pooi To girls, through the stories of these athletes, can come to understand the precious values of perseverance, teamwork, legacy, and love for one’s country and home.
The most striking feature of this Asian Games was “embracing the future amid extreme frugality.” The organizers did not build a traditional athletes’ village; instead, they accommodated 17,000 participants on cruise ships, in shipping containers, and in scattered hotels. The opening ceremony was also lightweight, medals were made from recycled metal, and stage props prioritized recyclable materials. This commitment to balancing needs, environmental protection, and sustainable development is worthy of our study and reflection.
The Chinese delegation, with 169 gold, 89 silver, and 83 bronze medals—341 medals in total— topped both the gold medal table and the overall medal table for the twelfth consecutive edition. Most inspiring of all was a group of young rising stars. Yu Zidi, only thirteen years old, won three swimming gold medals, set a new Asian record, and was named the women’s most valuable athlete. Yet in an interview she said with remarkable clarity, “I don’t think I’m a genius,” showing that the hard training behind the scenes is the true foundation of talent. Seventeen-year-old Chen Yujie also impressed by running 11.06 seconds in the 100 meters to become Asia’s new “female flying star.” Every 0.1-second improvement may lie behind countless runs. These rising stars proved through action: true talent is earnest hard work and clear goals.
The Hong Kong, China delegation also achieved its historic best result, winning 11 gold, 19 silver, and 24 bronze medals—54 medals in total— entering the top ten of the medal table for the first time in history. Although Hong Kong is only a small city, such a result truly makes us proud. I saw on the television that Shum Hiu-yu won Hong Kong’s first gold of these Games in the women’s changquan; and after the event, she embraced her coach—an image of two generations passing on the torch, it was deeply moving. In addition, Coleman Wong Chak-lam, in the men’s singles tennis final, attacked steadily and calmly, winning Hong Kong’s first-ever Asian Games tennis gold, which was very touching. Furthermore, the men’s foil team event persevered against adversity and took silver. Behind these breakthroughs is constant perseverance and a never say die attitude. After crashing, track cyclist Yeung Chor-yiu said: “Actually every pedal stroke hurt, but the pain was a reminder that I had to win, to tell the whole world that I have this ability,” showing an unyielding fighting spirit in the face of adversity.
The value of sport often lies not in the moment of standing on the podium, but in the character shown along the long road toward the platform. Our alumna Yuri Li Ting-huen spent ten years becoming Hong Kong’s first rhythmic gymnast to step onto the Asian Games stage. She said: “I finally competed in the Asian Games for the first time… step by step, I reached Asia’s highest stage.” As the first Hong Kong participant, she bore pressure and faced mistakes, but summarized the experience with humor and positivity, regarding it as a mission to promote rhythmic gymnastics. This mindset—staying optimistic amid setbacks and seeing gains amid regret—is a life asset more precious than medals. In our congratulatory letter we wrote: “We are delighted that teachers and students have been able to accompany you in pursuing your dream.” I firmly believe that Pooi To is not only a place that imparts knowledge and fosters growth, but also a place that accompanies and witnesses each of you Pooi To girls chasing your dreams.
May you draw strength from these athletes. On the field of study and life, may you face challenges with a clear mind, face setbacks with a resilient will, learn collaboration with a team spirit, and embrace the world with love for your country and your home. The definition of success has never been limited to medals and scores; it lies more in the character and determination you show on your journey of growth, striving to shine on different stages.
Best Regards,
C. Cheung
