Hong Kong equestrian Jacqueline Lai off to Asian event after fifth spot at National Games
Despite finishing outside the medals, Lai says she is ‘quite pleased’ with her efforts and looking ahead to competing again next week
Jacqueline Lai Jing-man said she was feeling positive, ready and well supported ahead of the “unique challenge” of tackling an Asian Championships straight off the back of competing in the National Games.
Hongkonger Lai finished joint third in Wednesday’s showjumping final in Shenzhen, but slipped to fifth following a jump-off for bronze. The city squad ended the Games empty-handed.
Lai said her horse was “a little empty” for the jump-off, adding: “I could have managed it better and gone for a clear round.
“I’m not frustrated, though; I’m quite pleased overall,” she said.
On her last China Games appearance, in 2013 in Liaoning, Lai claimed silver, after being part of a team-bronze effort, aged 18, four years earlier.
“I didn’t come feeling too much pressure this time,” she said. “With my experience, and what I’ve learned about horses and the sport, I have more confidence.”