At the 15th National Games in Guangdong, young Chinese equestrian riders from Team Shanghai made a strong impression, winning gold in the team dressage event and securing silver in the individual final. Seventeen-year-old Gu Zhanzhao and teammate Xu Mofei stood out with their bold music choices and skilled performances, reflecting a new generation of riders trained extensively in Europe. Their international training has introduced advanced techniques and a fresh approach to horse communication, setting them apart from older generations and signaling China’s rising prominence in equestrian sports.

Veteran riders like Liu Tao praised the young athletes for benefiting from early access to top coaches and horses abroad, which has accelerated their development and competitive edge. Both generations share a mutual respect and a common ambition: to elevate China’s status in global equestrian competitions, including the Olympics. The blend of youthful talent and experienced perseverance promises a bright future for the sport in China.