Olympian Grace Lau's triumphant return to alma mater
Ms Grace Lau Mo-sheung, an alumna of City University of Hong Kong (CityU), returned to her alma mater on 19 August to attend a celebratory gathering after winning the Bronze medal for Hong Kong in the Karate Women’s Kata in the Tokyo Olympics.
At the gathering, Grace shared her reflections from the Tokyo Olympics, as well as her experience of being a student athlete. Grace enjoyed a relaxing afternoon with CityU community.
Mr Lester Garson Huang, Chairman of the Council of CityU, praised Grace for her outstanding performance, which fully embodied the Olympic spirit and the CityU character.
He said, "During the epidemic, Grace brings positive energy to the city, and CityU is proud of you!"
CityU President Way Kuo added, "CityU advocates ‘excellence in both academics and sports’. Grace displays perseverance and she is a model for CityU community."
Grace thanked the University for giving her full support for allowing her to undertake frequent training and competitions during her studies. She also shared with members of the CityU sports teams how she managed her time while taking care of both schoolwork and competitions.
She expressed that as a full-time athlete, there must be highs and lows, but as long as you believe in yourself and are dedicated, you will succeed. "Opportunities are always reserved for those who are prepared. Believe that your abilities are far greater than your imagination. Once the opportunity comes, you can play at the best level," she said.
In addition, Grace led the student athletes to chant the slogan of the CityU school team together, encouraging everyone to hold on to their beliefs and strive for success.
CityU was the first university in Hong Kong to introduce and practice the concept of One Health and established the "Student Athletes Admission Scheme" early in 1997. In the past ten years, more than 600 student athletes have been admitted through the scheme, including Grace. Before graduating from CityU, Grace led the CityU Women's Karate Team and won the team gold medal in karate competitions among local universities. She was also named USFHK Sportswoman of the Year for two consecutive years in 2014 and 2015.