Leonore

In their childhood videos and pictures that went popular on Chinese social media, Pan Zhanle and Zheng Qinwen—two Chinese athletes who won gold medals—promised to train hard and surpass their Chinese idols and previous gold medalists. Little did they know, they would end up breaking records and becoming even greater athletes. In an interview with local TV, 10-year-old Pan told the journalist that his goal is to "swim faster than Sun Yang," who was the first Chinese athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in men's swimming. Meanwhile, 12-year-old Zheng Qinwen stood in front of the TV, admiring her idol Li Na, who is Asia's first Grand Slam singles champion, male or female. Years later, 20-year-old Pan is the Olympic champion and current world record holder in the 100-meter freestyle event. Zheng is the first Asian player, male or female, to win an Olympic gold in singles. "薪火相传" is an idiom that is used very often by the Chinese. "The firewood may burn out, but the spark shall preserve" is the direct translation, and it refers to passing the spirit on through generations. The influence of a good example knows no bounds, and it's heartening to see that the younger Chinese generation is carrying on the country's tradition of excellence. I have faith in my country, I am confident in our future.