Letters | Sarah Lee will continue to inspire Hong Kong even after retiring from competitive sport

Readers discuss the traits that make the Olympic medallist an icon, the proposed legislation requiring mandatory reporting of child abuse, and the government’s call for organ donors

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Sarah Lee won a bronze medal in the cycling track women’s sprint at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. As a coach, Lee will help nurture young cycling talent who want to follow in her footsteps. Photo: Xinhua

Published: 11:30am, 10 Jun 2023

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Sarah Lee Wai-sze, Hong Kong’s beloved home-grown sporting icon, has finally retired from competitive cycling and is expected to soon take up a coaching role at the Hong Kong Sports Institute. Local sports fans will miss her and her mesmerising performances in cycling competitions.

The accolades and achievements Lee has amassed in her cycling career are nothing short of spectacular, but what stands out apart from her impressive resume is the dogged determination and perseverance displayed while battling injuries big and small in her quest for greatness. To be able to win two bronze medals almost a decade apart at two separate Olympics, in 2012 and 2021, speaks volumes about her commitment and dedication to a strict regimen and round-the-clock training.

Her on-bike achievements are well-known, but her off-bike influence is equally far-reaching.

By popularising cycling, Lee is promoting a healthy and environment friendly lifestyle. Obviously, not everyone has the talent to pursue a professional cycling career, but most can enjoy cycling as healthy exercise that helps to build muscles, boost metabolism and improve blood circulation. Cycling is also a mode of green transport that contributes to sustainable living and the reduction of our carbon footprint.

Lee is also a role model in lifelong learning. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in creative and professional writing from Baptist University and is currently enrolled in its master’s programme.