Xue Shen And Hongbo Zhao

I've watched Xue Shen and Hongbo Zhao skate at 3 previous Winter Olympics and it was with great anticipation that I watched them skate this morning, in their 4th Olympics in Vancouver. Leading after the short program, I was willing them on in their free skate, keeping my fingers crossed that the 2-time Olympic bronze medallists and 3-time world champions would skate clean and capture the Olympic gold that they had come out of retirement from to chase.

Approximately 4 minutes was what it took for them to capture the only major title to elude them in their illustrious career and I was as happy as can be. Theirs is a story of commitment, daring, an aspiration to reach the pinnacle. We can all learn a thing or two from their endeavour.

To witness such an historic moment 'live', even when it is via satellite TV, causes goosebumps. One can relate to the hard work, sacrifices and positivity required to achieve such a milestone. Much congratulations!

Photo of the winning couple.