Beijing, China, December 13, 2019: China’s Li Zhenqiang was presented with the Against All Odds Award at the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) awards gala presented by Longines in Moscow. Li started riding at the age of 27 and became a professional athlete just two years later. He was the first Chinese equestrian athlete to obtain the minimum eligibility requirements for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. Sadly, in 2009, his horse Jumpy passed away from cancer leaving Li without his beloved showjumping equine partner and in financial trouble. Li recovered from those difficult times, setting up an equestrian centre in Guangzhou. Li said: “I hope that other Chinese riders will now follow the title of this award, Against All Odds, to work together to overcome the challenges of developing Chinese equestrianism. Thank you to the FEI for supporting the sport in China and for all the people who voted for me at home and abroad. Your support and encouragement will inspire other Chinese riders to reach their goals.” The Against All Odds Award is for someone who has pursued their equestrian ambitions despite a physical handicap or extremely difficult personal circumstances. The glittering gala awards ceremony, which took place in the splendid surrounds of the Kremlin State Palace in the Russian capital, was attended by more than 350 distinguished guests, including top sporting legends, National Federations, FEI partners and stakeholders. Source: https://www.fei.org
China’s Li wins ‘against all odds’ equestrian award
