Wushu needs more events in GBA, coaches in Macao say

As wushu's global prestige reaches new heights — confirmed by its debut in the 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games and a spotlight from International Olympic Committee officials at the 15th National Games — Macao's wushu leaders are calling for intensified and standardized cooperation within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

They argue that shared training, standardized coaching, and more regional competitions are the crucial next steps to harness this momentum, elevate the martial arts-based sport to new levels, and nurture new champions.

The three-day wushu set routine event at the 15th National Games — the first national sports meeting co-hosted by Hong Kong, Macao and Guangdong province — drew attention from sports heavyweights including IOC Honorary President Thomas Bach and President Kirsty Coventry. They attended wushu competitions at the Guangzhou Nansha Gymnasium, praising Chinese sports development and expressing their excitement at bringing the sport to the 2026 YOG in Dakar, Senegal.

Also among the spectators was Li Yi, who won Macao a gold medal in the women's Changquan event at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. Every time Macao's junior players faced strong opponents, Li watched the rivalry with particular admiration.

"These young competitors are remarkably brave," she observed. "Making the finals means ranking among the nation's top twelve — that brings immense pressure, yet they truly rose to the occasion."

Selected for wushu training at the age of 8, Li emphasized that her journey from novice to champion was fueled by perseverance. Now a coach, she focuses on building strong fundamentals while prioritizing character development.

"There will be only one champion," Li noted. "What matters more is shaping resilient and responsible individuals through wushu."

Switching to a coaching career two years ago, Li said she has observed positive momentum in regional exchanges for this sport, including training sessions with teams from other regions such as Guangdong province and Malaysia.

Iao Chon-in — a former world champion and now the head coach of Macao's wushu team — is also a stout promoter and practitioner of cross-regional exchanges.

Regular interactions with fellow athletes and coaches from other wushu powerhouses are a vital catalyst for raising Macao's athletic caliber and "hugely beneficial" in ensuring the team moves with the most advanced training approaches, Iao said.

He championed a "veteran-led-newcomer" training model, through which local wushu schools can single out 10 to 20 trainees annually from a pool of over 250 candidates to join the city's representative team, thus forming a stable career ladder from rookies to elites.

Li, too, suggested more cross-regional competitions to train green recruits.

"Events like the National Games will serve as ideal platforms for joint training camps and performances. Athletes can spend extended time together, experiencing each other's training environments firsthand and fostering meaningful exchanges."

She also advocated for better integration of wushu with Macao's positioning as a world center of tourism and leisure, suggesting curated tours that combine competitions with cultural site visits to offer immersive experiences.

Iao said long-term career planning and logistical support for the sustainment of athletes' skills remain persistent challenges for Macao's wushu development.

Some of the most promising athletes have a tendency to leave the sport in their mid-20s to start families or pursue studies, causing a recurring talent drain, said Iao, likening the situation to "a plate of chicken but no soy sauce".

Fundamental support is in place, but critical incentives are still missing to retain the city's best talent, he said.

The head coach also urged stepping up medical and nutritional support to athletes, and above all, offering a dual-track career development pathway that helps young athletes balance training with academic needs, which is crucial for a smoother transition to a post-athletic career and long-term success.

Li encourages young athletes to enjoy wushu. "Though it was tough, I gained a lot. In the end, it all boils down to two words: extremely joyful."

Li said she is dedicated to passing on this joy and resilience to junior athletes, hoping one day to see students she coaches inherit Macao's wushu traditions and shine on the stage she once graced.

Contact the writers at stacyshi@chinadailyhk.com