Nelson Yip to represent Hong Kong in Paralympics competition
 |
Nelson Yip will represent Hong Kong in dressage in the Paralympics. |
Thirty-nine-year-old Nelson Yip is Hong Kong’s only qualified equestrian representative in the Paralympics to be held in the city in September. Although Mr. Yip has had cerebral palsy since infancy, he doesn’t allow it to detract from his preparation for the big event. He trains at the public riding school in Tuen Mun five days a week.
While overseeing his three businesses in Kwun Tong, Mr. Yip gives priority to intensive training and theory lectures, aiming to enhance his equestrian skills, knowledge and experience.
“Apart from the training, I still go for a lot of complementary exercise like swimming and tai chi because, as a rider, I want to improve my breathing and make my body more supple. I am also about to start Pilates,” said Mr. Yip.
Mr. Yip started riding only six years ago and has competed in Australia, Japan, Canada and the U.K. He described his overseas competitors as having strong riding skills built from a young age.
His recent failure to finish in a U.K. event in July due to a sudden drop in temperature and heavy rain also has made him realize the importance of riders learning to cope with adverse situations.
"Experience is what we are lacking. That means we have to work triple hard to digest each lesson and to strengthen learning. We are not only improving basic skills but also more advanced techniques," he said. "I am confident in getting my best result because I can see constant progress each week. I think a rider has to set a goal and overcome any hurdle while at the same time enjoying the whole process."
Mr. Yip said he is glad Hong Kong has been given the opportunity to co-host the games, saying it will be a unique experience for the city and for himself as a participant.
"When a city like Hong Kong can co-host an Olympic event, it means more rider and public interest will be aroused in the sport. At the same time, more infrastructure and facilities will be introduced,” he said, adding that this would mean better prospects for the sport with more facilities and more people enjoying riding.
"It is all about friendship, all about fun. We are all here for the same sport striving for excellence together."
Mr. Yip will represent Hong Kong in dressage, which he says encompasses impulsion, harmony and constancy.
He said with impulsion and energy a rider moves with the horse harmoniously, presenting a very peaceful and lovely picture.
"The movement is very steady, just like dancing. It's like a piece of art in the eyes of the audience."
His horse, Icy Bet, is 19 years old, the equivalent of 70 human years. But Mr. Yip finds him a top partner and as close as a family member.
"We hope to maintain Icy Bet in good form as he usually loses weight in summer. But the competition will be held in the early mornings and late evenings to avoid the heat," he said.
With the competition still months away, Yip says it is too early to feel overly excited or nervous.
"Up to now I think my focus is on improving my quality of riding. But because the competition will be held locally, I will meet a lot of friends and family members inside the arena, as well as get the spotlight from the media. A rider has to manage that kind of stress. So I have to focus on the riding and enjoy the competition. If a rider can relax, he can perform."
Riding for the Disabled Association Chairman KK Yeung describes Mr. Yip as a modest sportsman and hopes his efforts will pay off with a medal.
"He understands he has to listen to improve. Also he has determination. As a sportsman, he needs to be determined to better himself," said Mr. Yeung.
|
