‘Family reunion’ gives Hong Kong cycling star Sarah Lee more of a buzz than a World Cup bronze medal in the keirin
Hong Kong star was happy to come away with her second medal at the UCI Track World Cup but she was more content to see her folks in the stands
Home rider Sarah Lee Wai-sze wrapped up the Hong Kong leg UCI Track World Cup with a bronze medal in the women’s keirin on Sunday but she said she felt like a winner with her parents in the spectators’ gallery.
Lee added the bronze to her silver medal in the sprint won the previous night and she told reporters that she first spotted her father seated in the spectator stand among the 2,700-strong fans at the Hong Kong Velodrome, before spotting her mother and other family members.
I have not seen my parents for more than a month as I wanted to focus on my preparations for the event
“I have not seen my parents for more than a month as I wanted to focus on my preparations for the event,” said the home favourite, who spent two weeks in winter camp in Kunming before returning to Hong Kong two weeks ago to prepare for her races.
“I have found that sports is more than just competition as it can link up a family and also my relationship with other people of Hong Kong. Thanks to the organisers and those who have been involved in the Hong Kong leg for making the event happen. Thanks to the fans who came here to support us. I definitely miss the Hong Kong event and want to come back again.”
Veteran Simona Krupeckaite of Lithuania won the eight-lap race with Stephanie Morton of Australia finishing just ahead of Lee for the silver medal.
“I really wanted the home crowd to have a good memory but there are many uncertainties in keirin,” said Lee. “There is nothing wrong with my performance although I would say there is certainly room for improvement on the tactics side.
