Business School alumni Olympians in the spotlight: Hong Kong’s pride

The 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled to commence at the end of July, will once again capture global attention as a premier sporting event. Within the robust alumni community of CUHK Business School, there is no shortage of elite athletes who have proudly represented Hong Kong on the Olympic stage. In this feature, we have invited two of them: Ron Lee (EMBA 2017), former fencing athlete, and Daniel Lee (EMBA 2024), former triathlete, to reflect on their journeys competing in international competitions and the athletic philosophy they have gleaned from their sweat and tears, inspiring them to strive for excellence in every phase of life.

 

Ron Lee (EMBA 2017): Learning to “lose” is the path to victory

Former Hong Kong fencing athlete who competed in prestigious sports events such as the Olympics and Asian Games; achieved bronze in the men’s team foil at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games, gold at the 1991 Asian Fencing Championships, and bronze at the 1994 Commonwealth Fencing Championships

 

Fencing demands intense focus. While matches may appear fast-paced to spectators, for me, every second unfolds in slow motion. Reflecting on the bronze medal bout at the 1990 Beijing Asian Games, I vividly remember each move my opponent made and every response I delivered. These moments remain crystal clear in my memory to this day.

I always feel nervous when competing in international tournaments, yet I swiftly adjust to get into my stride. Even when trailing, I approach each point with a mindset of starting anew. My athletic journey has imparted two valuable lessons: firstly, the importance of embracing defeat. With only one champion per competition, there is a 99% likelihood of experiencing losses. It is crucial to conduct thorough self-reflection after each defeat, comprehend your opponent’s strengths, and use this insight to prepare for future triumphs. Secondly, “to be on time is considered late”. If a competition starts at 8 am, I arrive at 6 am to ensure ample time for equipment checks, warm-ups, and other preparations.

 

Ron (left) acknowledges that his experiences in competition have taught him the importance of learning to “lose”, as it paves the way for him to triumph in the next race.

I enrolled in the EMBA programme at CUHK Business School based on the recommendation of Amy Chan (EMBA 2014), Headmistress of Apprentice Jockeys’ School of The Hong Kong Jockey Club and a former Olympian. With over a decade in management, I found that much of my practical experience resonated with the theories taught in class, offering fresh insights into management blind spots and enhancing my overall management mindset. I miss my classmates a lot and look forward to celebrating our 10th anniversary next year.

To the Hong Kong representatives competing in this year’s Paris Olympics, approach it with a calm mindset – after all, it is just another competition! Deliver at the usual standard, focusing on giving the best effort and leaving no regrets, rather than solely on the final result!

 

Daniel Lee (EMBA 2024): Today’s struggle is tomorrow’s success

Former Hong Kong triathlete who competed in the major contests like Olympics, Asian Games, and National Games of China, winning the silver medal in the Triathlon at the 2006 Doha Asian Games

 

Years of training and competition have taught me that while time and effort are necessary for success, they don’t always guarantee it. Nevertheless, I am determined to give it my all first, ensuring I have a chance to succeed.

I remember one time when I was preparing for a competition, due to exhaustion, I experienced muscle cramps during training and couldn’t complete the training regimen set by my coach. At that time, my coach advised me to cease training and prioritise rest. This approach proved effective, as I performed very well in the actual race. That experience taught me the importance of knowing when to pause and take a break.

When partaking in major international events like the Asian Games and Olympics, athletes often require additional time to acclimate. While regular competitions typically have brief 30-minute opening ceremonies, where we warm up beforehand and compete shortly after, ceremonies of global events can last for an hour. During those days, my team and I arrived at the venue two to three days in advance. Beyond familiarising ourselves with the racecourse, we focused on adjusting our bodies, particularly ensuring they remain in optimal condition even an hour after warming up.

I have also learnt from sports to stay positive and smile in every situation. A senior has once shared that smiling can change your mental quality and release endorphins, which are immensely helpful for your mental adjustment during competition. Now I also bring on this mentality to my work. Even though there are piles of work, I just need to believe in myself and complete them bit by bit with a smile. In the end, they will all do well.

 

Daniel learnt from sports to always keep a smile in every situation.

I am set to complete my EMBA programme by mid-2024. This journey does not only enhance my managerial acumen but also allow me to master the application of strategic thinking in operational and developmental contexts. What I will cherish the most are the classroom experiences, particularly the interactions with professors and colleagues.

Lastly, I wish all Hong Kong athletes representing us at the Paris Olympics to perform at their best and enjoy every moment of the game.

 

CUHK Business School alumni are everywhere, transcending geographical and industrial boundaries. To explore more inspiring alumni stories, please click HERE.