From humble beginnings to national champions, the Xizang Equestrian Team has galloped its way into the spotlight, blending centuries-old riding traditions with modern athletic ambition.
A recent visit by a China Global Television Network (CGTN) crew to their training grounds revealed a team driven by discipline, a deep connection with their horses, and even a strong desire for triumphs.
Team leader Cuo Deng takes pride in his riders, who embody the very spirit of elite equestrianism: courage, resilience and unwavering dedication.
"Bianba Ciren is a naturally gifted athlete, incredibly fast, tenacious and brave. Danzeng Luodan, he's cheerful and lively, and his care for the horses is very meticulous. He pays close attention to any issue with the horses, and that is the secret to success," said team leader Cuo Deng.
The athletes' bond with their horses stood out just as strongly as their competitive edge.
"I've loved riding horses since I was a kid. My parents initially worried about the danger, but they supported me once they saw my passion,” said Danzeng Luodan.
That passion, however, was forged through hardship. In the early days, resources were scarce and opportunities few.
"I started as a stable hand. Because our team didn't have enough horses, so they sent us out to clubs. I get up every morning to clean the stables. And I remember losing 10 pounds in just one week. I sometimes wondered why I had to do all that work? But the chance to ride so many horses made it all worth it," he recalled.
That grit and perseverance have defined the team since its founding in 1986. Team leader Cuo Deng and coach Dan Zeng were among the first members and have remained devoted to the cause for nearly four decades.
"The toughest time was 1986. I used to get so nervous to a degree that today's athletes don't understand. Because the next day, we were riding wild horses. We didn't have the proper hats for dressage, so I wore a magician's hat instead. The top of that hat was incredibly high," said Cuo Deng.
"As a Xizang athlete, my goal was simple: to fight for the team. All I wanted was to bring honor to Xizang," said Dan Zeng.
Their dedication laid the foundation for a new generation of champions. In 2021, the team made history by winning gold in the team event at the National Games in northwest China's Shaanxi Province.
"I was so happy. I have a photo from that moment, where I was just yelling towards the audience. All those years of suppressed emotion, it just all released right then," said Danzeng Luodan.
Now, a younger group of riders is training hard for this year's National Games scheduled for November, eager to take the reins and carry forward a legacy built on passion, tradition, and relentless drive.
The episode is part of CGTN's new series showcasing inspiring stories about Xizang youth and marking the 60th founding anniversary of the Xizang Autonomous Region.
Xizang equestrian team turns passion, tradition into competitive success
