Ricky said wushu's number one rule is to respect others.An athlete's achievements depend on training, talent, physique, mentality and luck. But wushu star Ricky Lau Chi-lung can't ignore the vital role his coach plays.
Ricky, 15, from St Joseph's Anglo-Chinese School, won gold medals in Group B men's nandao, nanquan and nangun at the eighth Asian Junior Wushu Championships in Xilinhot, Inner Mongolia, last year. Now Ricky has his sights set on the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia.
The fighter says the number one rule in his sport is to respect seniors, especially his coach, Ye Jun.
"I listen to Ye's instructions carefully. Apart from teaching me wushu techniques, my coach looks after me like a son. For example, he told me to treat every competition as a performance. Thanks to his support and advice, I've gotten more confident and mature when handling intense competitions," said Ricky.
He also explained how he applies his coach's advice to his life outside sport.
"Ye has taught me to be polite and humble to teammates and opponents. It's a valuable tip for maintaining good relationships with others," he said.
Bench notes
Who are your favourite athletes?
Wushu stars Leung Cheuk-hei and Yuan Jiaying. I look up to Leung who taught me the importance of basic techniques, such as wushu jumps or kicks, which are key to making excellent wushu form.
Yuan is one of the toughest martial artists because she keeps practising for hours after every training session.
If you could have a superpower for 24 hours, what would you choose and how would you use it?
I would choose the ability to fly, because I'd be able to save time, visit beautiful places all over the world, and explore different cultures. Flying also creates a euphoric sense of freedom.
Who is your favourite singer?
Hiroyuki Sawano. Listening to his ambient music helps me stay focused and calm before every competition and training session.
What food would you never give up?
Grilled salmon sushi.