Born to run

When you are born with jaundice, which affects your body balance, it is unlikely that you will walk properly. But So Wa-wai, who was born with the condition, not only walked - he went on to become a Paralympic runner. With a time of 12.15 seconds, he is currently the men's world record holder for 100 metres (in the cerebral palsy category) and has won 11 medals across four Paralympic Games. Many deem him Hong Kong's miracle athlete.

How did you get involved with sports?

As a kid, I loved to run around. I liked taking part in school athletics' meets and my performance at one caught the attention of athletics coach Poon Kin-lui. I was in Primary Five at the time and the coach asked if I wanted to train with him. My mother warned me that training would be tough, but I didn't believe her. Looking back, I was naive not to. I thought training would be relaxing and a time for fun. How wrong I was, though of course I enjoy it.

What has been your most memorable sporting moment?

My first Paralympics in Atlanta in 1996. The team only had three runners on the 4x100 relay team, and so I had the chance to be the fourth, even though I was only 14 years old. To everyone's surprise, we won gold for the men's 4?100 relay (in the T34-37 class).

What is your approach to tough competition?

The 2008 Paralympics was a major disappointment as I failed to win any gold medals. I guess the pressure of running on home soil was too great for me. After this, I realised that it doesn't matter whether I win or lose, so long as I have done my best. You may be improving, but others are also getting better, so work hard, give your best, and there will be no regrets.