https://www.scmp.com/rss/14273/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Strange Beasts of China by Yan Ge (translated by Jeremy Tiang), Tilted Axis Press The industrial city of Yong’an is home to a number of beasts. Some of them closely resemble humans, others are ancient breeds and others have been artificially engineered. Among them, the Sorrowful Beasts, whose males weave textiles and whose females possess a great beauty; Joyous Beasts, who are short in stature and take pleasure in breakfast cereal and fantasy novels but dislike maths; and the melancholic... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/books/article/3108439/strange-beasts-china-yan-ges-fabled-creatures-arent?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/books/article/3108439/strange-beasts-china-yan-ges-fabled-creatures-arent?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Nov 2020 08:45:09 +0000 China Through Time: A 2,500 Year Journey Along the World’s Greatest Canal, illustrated by Du Fei, DK Children, 4 stars In China Through Time, young readers are invited to explore the people, the stories and the fortunes of the world’s longest and oldest canal. With illustrations by Du Fei, the book takes readers on an illustrated journey through key moments in the history of the canal. The book opens with the idea of the Grand Canal: “Some 2,500 years ago, in ancient China, an emperor had a... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3076404/childrens-history-worlds-oldest-and-longest-canal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3076404/childrens-history-worlds-oldest-and-longest-canal?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 25 Mar 2020 09:00:15 +0000 Paper Son: The Inspiring Story of Tyrus Wong, Immigrant and Artist, by Julie Leung and Chris Sasaki (illustrations). Published by Schwartz & Wade. 4/5 stars Growing up in Atlanta in the US, Julie Leung didn’t have many opportunities to read about inspiring Chinese-Americans. That’s why, when she learned about Tyrus Wong – the artist who helped to create the Walt Disney film Bambi – through his New York Times obituary, she decided to tell his story. Leung’s words in Paper Son: The Inspiring story... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3046305/chinese-artist-who-drew-disneys-bambi-look-life-immigrant?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3046305/chinese-artist-who-drew-disneys-bambi-look-life-immigrant?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 16 Jan 2020 10:00:13 +0000 Portraits of Trees of Hong Kong and Southern China, by Sally Grace Bunker (illustrations), and Richard M.K. Saunders and Chun-Chiu Pang (text). Published by Earnshaw Books. 4/5 stars Hong Kong-based British botanical artist Sally Grace Bunker has been painting the trees of Hong Kong for six hours a day during the past seven and a half years. After exploring the city (including four hikes up Sunset Peak to capture the rare IIllicium angustisepalum or Lantau star-anise) for the better part of a... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3007509/beautiful-watercolour-plates-more-100-hong-kong-trees-real?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/3007509/beautiful-watercolour-plates-more-100-hong-kong-trees-real?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Apr 2019 06:15:05 +0000 There’s a moment in Kelly Yang’s debut novel, Front Desk, when 10-year old Mia Tang is being mocked for wearing second-hand floral trousers. It’s California in the early 1990s and the rest of the kids at school are in jeans, but Mia’s stuck in a pair of thin, pyjama-like trousers that her mother bought in a bundle at a charity store. 2017: the year Asian-American writers broke into mainstream of US literary publishing It’s a small scene but, for Yang, who was also dressed in charity shop floral... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/books/article/2145312/kelly-yang-mines-her-experience-child-immigrant-us?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/books/article/2145312/kelly-yang-mines-her-experience-child-immigrant-us?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 09 May 2018 13:30:45 +0000 There’s nothing old-fashioned about a new opera production at the oldest Western-style theatre in China, Macau’s Dom Pedro V Theatre. Duetto, a pairing of two one-act operas, features a rock’n’roll set, action that takes place throughout the theatre, from foyer to stage, and, in place of an orchestral accompaniment, a piano and a trombone quartet. The two chamber operas, written nearly 200 years apart, are linked dramatically into a single story. Although this is not entirely new – a recent... https://www.scmp.com/culture/arts-entertainment/article/2138076/opera-makes-dramatic-return-dom-pedro-v-macau-chinas?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/arts-entertainment/article/2138076/opera-makes-dramatic-return-dom-pedro-v-macau-chinas?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 21 Mar 2018 11:26:49 +0000 A renowned Madama Butterfly and the first Chinese soprano to sing Tosca at La Scala and Aida at New York’s Metropolitan Opera, He Hui is arguably the most successful Western opera singer to come out of China. Hong Kong author Melanie Ho’s new book, Journey to the West: He Hui, a Chinese soprano in the world of Italian opera, takes readers from He Hui’s home in Xian and her second-place finish in Plácido Domingo’s Operalia competition to her debut as Tosca in the notoriously difficult opera city... https://www.scmp.com/culture/books/article/2115924/butterfly-aida-and-tosca-how-chinese-soprano-he-hui-took-italian-opera?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/books/article/2115924/butterfly-aida-and-tosca-how-chinese-soprano-he-hui-took-italian-opera?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 19 Oct 2017 00:31:34 +0000 For Chinese soprano He Hui, the role of Verdi’s Aida is one close to her heart. It was the first role she sang when at the age of 26, she was cast as the Ethiopian princess in the all-Chinese production of Aida at the opening of the Shanghai Grand Theatre in 1998. Two years later, she sang O patria mia, Aida’s lament for the homeland she’ll never see again, in the finals of Placido Domingo’s Operalia competition, where she placed second, a result that launched her career. Later she became the... https://www.scmp.com/culture/arts-entertainment/article/2113700/chinese-soprano-he-hui-talks-about-singing-aida-placido?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/arts-entertainment/article/2113700/chinese-soprano-he-hui-talks-about-singing-aida-placido?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 03 Oct 2017 10:00:45 +0000 Rossini’s The Barber of Seville may have a predominantly male cast, but that has not put American mezzo-soprano Stephanie Lauricella off taking part in this popular opera. Far from feeling intimidated, the 32-year-old relishes the opportunity to make her character stand out. “She’s a lot of fun,” says Lauricella, who sings the part of Rosina in Opera Hong Kong’s latest production of the Italian opera. “Other than me, there’s Berta, who has an aria as well, but it’s mostly guys. I find it... https://www.scmp.com/culture/arts-entertainment/article/2092016/rossini-rom-com-opera-hong-kong-sets-barber-seville?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/arts-entertainment/article/2092016/rossini-rom-com-opera-hong-kong-sets-barber-seville?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 May 2017 09:03:32 +0000 Imprint 16 by Hong Kong Women in Publishing Society Arting Press Limited 3.5 Stars Now in its 16th edition, Imprint, the annual anthology published by the Hong Kong Women in Publishing Society (WiPS), continues its tried-and-trusted tradition of flash fiction and short stories, personal essays, memoirs, and travelogues, alongside refreshing poetry and prose that speak to the diversity of English-language writing in Hong Kong. Featuring 43 local female writers and artists, the nearly 60 pieces... https://www.scmp.com/culture/books/article/2090485/book-review-imprint-16-combines-talents-experiences-and-voices-hong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/books/article/2090485/book-review-imprint-16-combines-talents-experiences-and-voices-hong?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Apr 2017 23:32:23 +0000 Running Man By Charlie Engle Simon & Schuster On any given weekend, Hong Kong’s trails are likely to be well populated with runners – on solo dashes in the latest equipment, in pairs or small groups, or in a pack taking part in one of the races that stud the city’s events calendar. Trail running seems to have exploded in popularity in recent years. Inclusive, accessible and addictive, the sport is an antidote to long hours spent in the office. For ultramarathoner Charlie Engle, running – whether... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/books/article/2021266/book-review-how-sport-saved-ultra-runner-charlie-engle?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/post-magazine/books/article/2021266/book-review-how-sport-saved-ultra-runner-charlie-engle?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 22 Sep 2016 09:32:08 +0000 A night-time ride on a mini-moto gave David Brabham his first taste of the Guia Circuit, with the then 23-year-old weaving his way around the 6.2km circuit just before midnight, attempting to learn both the corners and the unforgiving walls that frame the iconic track. A few days later, Brabham climbed into his Formula Three car and drove to victory in the 1989 Macau Grand Prix, beating the likes of Michael Schumacher and Mika Hakkinen. Now, 20 years later, Brabham is returning to Macau. But... https://www.scmp.com/article/698570/brabham-savours-chance-relive-glory-1989-macau-race?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/698570/brabham-savours-chance-relive-glory-1989-macau-race?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:00:00 +0000 The sentiment struck after hiking 25km over the hills of Stanley and Central. In an exclamation of exhilaration and knees gone tired, Lady Lucy Tang wrote on her blog 'OH, WHAT AM I DOING!' as she realised the enormity of the challenge ahead - next weekend's RacingThePlanet: Namibia 2009. Four encouraging postings from friends - including one who wrote down a schedule of multiple 35km runs with a weighted pack - and it is clear the 250km, six-day stage adventure is not just a race, but a... https://www.scmp.com/article/679812/running-belles?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/679812/running-belles?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 09 May 2009 16:00:00 +0000 In true Hong Kong fashion, training begins and ends with rice. That is, a 10kg bag of unopened rice stuffed into a back-pack and loaded onto the shoulders of Tom Tsang Chiu-tong as she and her partner, Barry Smith, go for their weekly training sessions. 'We bring bags of rice because it moulds to the back and isn't lumpy, but then we add water and we train with it once a week,' said Tsang, a senior inspector with the Hong Kong Police. Tsang will compete in her first RacingThePlanet event in... https://www.scmp.com/article/679813/police-training-gives-tsang-head-start?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/679813/police-training-gives-tsang-head-start?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 09 May 2009 16:00:00 +0000 Fare The high tea buffet (3.30pm-6pm) has the requisite cucumber sandwiches and scones with homemade jam and clotted cream, but also a patisserie paradise, a savoury heaven, and a sweet sensation, with a staggering array of delectable delights from the unusual egg custard and salmon roe to crackly macaroons, crabmeat sandwiches, freshly made waffles and generous helpings of heavenly cakes. Ambience It's posh on the mezzanine level, with fantastic views and high ceilings, but the comfy lounge... https://www.scmp.com/article/677739/tiffin?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/677739/tiffin?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:00:00 +0000 4/F Two IFC, 8 Finance Street, Central, 8129 8882 Fare New California cuisine featuring 'a little of everything'. The emphasis is on health-conscious and beautifully presented dishes that are naturally good and fresh. Ambience A lively atmosphere, especially if you sit outside. Inside, candles are lit at night and a red hue imbues the eatery. Tables are well- spaced and the floor-to-ceiling windows offering impressive views of the city's skyscrapers. The modern, trendy yet casual feel of the... https://www.scmp.com/article/656489/red-california-dreaming-new-romantics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/656489/red-california-dreaming-new-romantics?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 15 Oct 2008 16:00:00 +0000 For many in Hong Kong's equestrian community, the post-Olympics period is just as important as the Games themselves. There is no point in bringing some of the world's best to Hong Kong if nothing remains afterwards. The promise of an Olympic legacy is a requirement for the host city, although the gift of continuation differs from one Olympics to another. In Hong Kong, there are worries whether hosting the Games will be a turning point for the sport. From the Hong Kong Jockey Club, the public... https://www.scmp.com/article/650832/whats-store-hks-equestrian-community?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/650832/whats-store-hks-equestrian-community?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 The story could be called 'How to collect cousins', 'My return home' or 'What sport can actually mean'. It could even borrow its title from popular music, as John Gbenda-Charles will attest that in New Zealand he was the black child and then later, in Sierra Leone, the white athlete. But no matter the title, the story would be the same. It's selecting the highlight that becomes difficult. Was it when a young cousin in Kono stuck by his side and offered to bodyguard his older cousin, who is now a... https://www.scmp.com/article/650834/gbenda-charles-enjoys-best-both-worlds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/650834/gbenda-charles-enjoys-best-both-worlds?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 30 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 The use of products with performance-enhancing capabilities is widespread in the showjumping world, according to an experienced equestrian trainer. Four Olympic showjumpers have tested positive to a muscle relaxant with banned properties, but that could be the tip of the iceberg, according to the trainer, who wished to remain anonymous.'I wouldn't be surprised if it was as high as 80 per cent,' the trainer said yesterday. 'There are a lot of products or concoctions that are not going to swab... https://www.scmp.com/article/650025/banned-skin-products-rife-world-showjumping?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/650025/banned-skin-products-rife-world-showjumping?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 22 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Business as usual, reported the Equestrian Company amid concerns Typhoon Nuri would wreak havoc on the final competition day of the events. Of course, with the positive dope tests of four riders of four nations all for the same drug, business was not entirely in the smooth form it had been since the eventing competition began 13 days ago. However, as Typhoon Nuri neared, organisers explained the best plan was to run everything as scheduled. 'There's no point in moving the competition forward,'... https://www.scmp.com/article/649861/nuri-fails-spoil-party-horses-have-hang-around?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649861/nuri-fails-spoil-party-horses-have-hang-around?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 21 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Equine muscle relaxant was Irishman's downfall An orange gooey muscle relaxant is the source of the capsaicin that was found in the positive doping test of Latinus, the horse ridden by Denis Lynch of Ireland. Irish team veterinarian Marcus Swail said Lynch regularly applied Equi-Block, which contains capsaicin, to the lower back of Latinus as a part of his warm-up routine. 'It was part of his routine during the bigger wins he's had this year,' said Swail, adding the horse had tested negative... https://www.scmp.com/article/649862/shock-positive-dope-test-shatters-lynchs-dream?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649862/shock-positive-dope-test-shatters-lynchs-dream?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 21 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Four horses involved in Olympic equestrian events have failed a drug test, casting a shadow over last night's finale in Hong Kong. Their riders - including Tony Andre Hansen, a member of the Norwegian team that won a bronze medal in showjumping on Monday - were suspended after their horses tested positive for capsaicin, a drug that increases sensitivity and relieves pain. The others were Bernardo Alves of Brazil, Christian Ahlmann of Germany, and Denis Lynch of Ireland. 'This is... https://www.scmp.com/article/649942/horses-fail-drug-test-ahead-games-finale?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649942/horses-fail-drug-test-ahead-games-finale?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 21 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 An orange gooey muscle relaxant is the source of the capsaicin that was found in the positive doping test of Latinus, the horse ridden by Denis Lynch of Ireland. Irish team veterinarian Marcus Swail said Lynch regularly applied Equi-Block - an equine version of Deep Heat - to Latinus' lower back as a part of his warm-up routine. 'It was part of his routine during the bigger wins he's had this year,' said Swail, adding that the horse had tested negative numerous times this season. 'So it's a... https://www.scmp.com/article/649747/irelands-lynch-shattered-over-positive-test?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649747/irelands-lynch-shattered-over-positive-test?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 'Keep your fingers crossed,' one woman said. British rider Emma Hindle gestured to her mid-section and nodded. But the woman was not referring to Hindle's health - two months ago, the 33-year-old had an operation to remove a tumour - but to her dressage score, a 72.345 per cent that would be enough to give her seventh. 'Right,' Hindle said and looked back up to the rider competing in the arena. Less than two months ago, during the British Olympic selection trials, Hindle discovered she had a... https://www.scmp.com/article/649651/amazing-comeback-shows-hindles-hunger-and-power-friends?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649651/amazing-comeback-shows-hindles-hunger-and-power-friends?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Three-time gold medallist rules out trying for a fourth in London A blue television microphone moved back and forth between gold medallist Anky van Grunsven and silver medallist Isabell Werth. The two long-time rivals stood inches apart, answering questions. It was a familiar scene to followers of the equestrian circuit but one that may never be seen again. Long before this competition began the question had been whether or not the Netherlands' Van Grunsven could win another individual... https://www.scmp.com/article/649650/van-grunsven-does-it-again?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649650/van-grunsven-does-it-again?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 While some want a little luck going into the individual showjumping finale, others already feel lucky the rules will allow them a fresh start. With the team competition decided, the individual showjumping medals will be contested on Thursday night as the top 35 riders from last night's competition advanced to the first of two rounds. 'Need a bit of luck,' Ireland's Denis Lynch said. 'Hopefully, he [horse Lantinus] stays sound, I stay sound and nothing happens in between and then off we go.' But... https://www.scmp.com/article/649569/individual-jumping-offers-fresh-start?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649569/individual-jumping-offers-fresh-start?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 For some it's musicals, for others it's Pink Floyd An endless Pachelbel 's Canon it is not. In both the Grand Prix and the Grand Prix Special, horses and riders have completed their tests to what might best be described as a soundtrack of elevator music. But in tonight's individual dressage medal finale, the 15 combinations who advanced to the Grand Prix Freestyle have selected their own routines and music. Elevator music is at the rider's discretion. But as the judges mark both technical... https://www.scmp.com/article/649568/trying-get-your-horse-song?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649568/trying-get-your-horse-song?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Hong Kong rider on course to reach finals after another fine show Patrick Lam's dream run continued in the showjumping at Sha Tin as the Hong Kong rider had just two jumping faults in last night's second qualifier. The result means the 25-year-old, riding Urban, makes the third individual qualifier. While Hong Kong did not advance to tonight's team final - they finished 15th out of 16 - Lam said he was thrilled by his performance. 'My dream was to go to the Olympics,' said Lam, who finished tied... https://www.scmp.com/article/649511/lam-wows-crowd-again?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649511/lam-wows-crowd-again?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 While some want a little luck going into the individual showjumping finale, others already feel lucky the rules give them a fresh start. With the team competition decided, the individual showjumping medals will be contested on Thursday night as the top 35 riders from Monday's competition advance to the first of two rounds. 'I need a bit of luck,' Ireland's Denis Lynch said. 'Hopefully, he [horse Lantinus] stays sound, I stay sound and nothing happens in between and then off we go.' But... https://www.scmp.com/article/649435/riders-jump-clean-slate?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649435/riders-jump-clean-slate?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Hong Kong's police motorcycle brigade and the Olympic showjumping team have at least one thing in common - jodhpurs. Alan Chu Pui-lam, the designer behind the Hong Kong's team uniform is also the same designer who conceptualised the protective jacket and jodhpurs worn by Hong Kong's motorcycle-riding traffic police. 'The fabric is a real riding pants fabric,' said Chu, who has worked for Marc Jacobs and Ralph Lauren on product development. 'It's a four-way stretch, it's functional and I think... https://www.scmp.com/article/649515/police-and-riders-love-chus-jodhpurs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649515/police-and-riders-love-chus-jodhpurs?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 German and Dutch riders sitting pretty for dressage medals The script for the individual gold in pure dressage continued as many had predicted, with Germany's Isabell Werth and the Netherlands' Anky Van Grunsven leading the way last night. Werth with Satchmo took first and Van Grunsven on Salinero finished second in the Grand Prix Special. The showdown for the gold medal will take place on Tuesday, with the top 15 from last night advancing to the Grand Prix Freestyle. That's where either Werth's... https://www.scmp.com/article/649353/lapses-dont-hold-back-werth-or-van-grunsven?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649353/lapses-dont-hold-back-werth-or-van-grunsven?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Dressage team silver medallist Imke Schellekens-Bartels was forced to withdraw before Saturday's Grand Prix Special after her horse, Sunrise, developed an injury, most likely during the team victory ceremony on Thursday night. Schellekens-Bartels, who had been ranked fifth going into Saturday night's Grand Prix Special, said she was not exactly sure what happened to one of the horse's front legs, and neither she nor the Netherlands team veterinarian had yet determined the precise injury. 'I... https://www.scmp.com/article/649311/dutch-silver-medallist-forced-pull-out?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649311/dutch-silver-medallist-forced-pull-out?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Top eight the target for work in progress Calling it the 'strongest' showjumping team the Australians had assembled for an Olympic Games, team manager Stephen Lamb said they were simply looking to continue upon their start from Friday night. 'It is possibly our strongest jumping team that we've ever sent to the Olympic Games,' Lamb said. 'It was an excellent start last night.' Showjumper Edwina Alexander agreed. 'I think it's the strongest team I've been in,' Alexander said. 'It would be... https://www.scmp.com/article/649355/strongest-aussie-team-just-looking-continue-form?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649355/strongest-aussie-team-just-looking-continue-form?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Dressage team silver medallist Imke Schellekens-Bartels was forced to withdraw from last night's Grand Prix Special after her horse, Sunrise, developed an injury, most likely during the team victory ceremony on Thursday night. Schellekens-Bartels (pictured), who had been ranked fifth going into last night's Grand Prix Special, said she was not sure what happened to one of the horse's front legs and neither she nor the Netherlands team veterinarian had yet determined the precise injury. 'I can't... https://www.scmp.com/article/649354/horse-injury-spells-end-dutch-hope?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649354/horse-injury-spells-end-dutch-hope?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Despite the absence of Michael Whitaker on Portofino 63, Great Britain have not lowered their chances of winning a showjumping medal - team and individual - in the competition, which begins on Friday night. Team manager Derek Ricketts said Great Britain - comprising John Whitaker, Ben Maher, Tim Stockdale and Nick Skelton who has replaced Michael Whitaker - had an 'extremely good chance' of winning a medal. Asked if his expectation for the colour of the medal had changed, Ricketts said:... https://www.scmp.com/article/649054/team-gb-riding-high?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649054/team-gb-riding-high?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 She may not have advanced to tomorrow's Grand Prix Special, but Liu Lina, the first Chinese rider to compete in an Olympic dressage competition, was satisfied with her performance. 'I feel very proud and very happy to ride for China,' said Liu, 29, whose family lives in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. 'I will learn a lot from this. It is very important to my development.' On Piroschka, Liu rode her test on Wednesday and gained a score of 60.625, placing her 41st after the Grand Prix... https://www.scmp.com/article/649057/liu-satisfied-dressage-first?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649057/liu-satisfied-dressage-first?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Despite the absence of Michael Whitaker on Portofino 63, Great Britain has not lowered their chances of winning a showjumping medal - team and individual - in the competition, which begins tonight. Team manager Derek Ricketts said Great Britain - comprising John Whitaker, Ben Maher, Tim Stockdale and Nick Skelton, who replaced Michael Whitaker - had an 'extremely good chance' of winning a medal. Asked if his expectation for the colour of the medal had changed, Ricketts said: 'No.' 'It's... https://www.scmp.com/article/649056/britain-still-chance-winning-medal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649056/britain-still-chance-winning-medal?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Germany make it three out of three at Sha Tin For Germany, it was another gold on another evening. From nearly the start of the Grand Prix dressage and, almost certainly from the beginning of last night's finale, the German team were set to claim team dressage victory by winning another gold medal, their third of three awarded so far during the 2008 Olympic equestrian events. With three more gold medals still to be claimed over the next week - in individual dressage and in team and individual... https://www.scmp.com/article/649058/now-thats-teamwork?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649058/now-thats-teamwork?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Sha Tin proving happy hunting ground for Werth & Co For Germany, it was another gold on another evening. From nearly the start of the Grand Prix dressage and, almost certainly from the beginning of last night's finale, the Germans were set to claim team victory, their third gold of the three awarded so far. With three more gold medals still to be claimed over the next week - in individual dressage and in team and individual showjumping - it is not unfair to ask how many more Germany will... https://www.scmp.com/article/649055/now-thats-teamwork-germany-win-again?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/649055/now-thats-teamwork-germany-win-again?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Great Britain's Michael Whitaker has withdrawn from the showjumping competition as his mare, Portofino 63, was declared unfit to compete. The horse arrived in Hong Kong in good condition, but became lame earlier this week for reasons that are still undetermined. Whitaker and Portofino 63 will now be replaced by reserve horse Russel, ridden by Nick Skelton. The showjumping competition begins tomorrow. Michael, 48, and brother John were regarded as Britain's best chance of a gold medal. The pair... https://www.scmp.com/article/648955/whitaker-out-showjumping?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648955/whitaker-out-showjumping?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Cancer survivor says she's happy to save the dressage miracles for later Hayley Beresford never defined herself as sick, but instead as someone who had to slow down and work her previously hectic life around radiation treatment for breast cancer. In 2004, at 25, Beresford discovered the illness, but kept news of the treatment to within family and close friends. All the while she continued to ride horses. 'It wasn't such a secret, we just didn't broadcast it,' Beresford said. 'When you go through... https://www.scmp.com/article/648954/aussie-taking-it-step-step?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648954/aussie-taking-it-step-step?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 13 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 From the stands, wrapped in a Swedish flag, one fan nervously held her hands up to her mouth. The man beside her bit his fingernails as he dramatically swayed and shifted with each fence that Albert Dag's Tubber Rebel jumped. When Dag finished with a clear round, the fans erupted, unfurling a giant Swedish flag that took four people to hold. For Sweden, the team eventing competition did not result with a medal, but given where the team had finished after the cross-country, fifth and with two... https://www.scmp.com/article/648895/fourth-place-just-fine-sweden-after-injury-woes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648895/fourth-place-just-fine-sweden-after-injury-woes?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 The pure dressage competition begins tonight and it looks like there will be two tiers of competition - a battle between two countries for gold and silver and a scrap between a handful of other nations for bronze. The elite two are Germany and the Netherlands and their respective stars Isabell Werth and Anky Van Grunsven. They are the unequivocal favourites for both the team and individual competition. Dutchwoman Van Grunsven is the two-time defending gold medallist who may be competing in her... https://www.scmp.com/article/648894/its-two-horse-race-gold-insiders-predict?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648894/its-two-horse-race-gold-insiders-predict?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Brazilian dressage rider Rogerio Clementino's dream of becoming the first Afro-Brazilian rider to compete in the Olympic equestrian events was destroyed last night when his horse failed a veterinary inspection. 'I'm proud to be here and it shows it doesn't matter the colour of the skin. You must be honest and work,' he said. Of the 54 horses presented on Sunday, only Clementino's was asked to be re-examined yesterday. The dressage competition starts tomorrow. https://www.scmp.com/article/648769/no-joy-clementino-and-unfit-nilo?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648769/no-joy-clementino-and-unfit-nilo?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Great Britain's Sharon Hunt described the feeling of becoming an Olympian as 'being a child again'. Beside her, teammate Tina Cook nodded in agreement and shared the excitement of competing. Both, along with Daisy Dick, are making their Games debut. But for Cook Hong Kong has added significance, as at the age of 37, she feels she is getting a second chance with Miners Frolic.At Sydney she travelled as the reserve, experiencing the athletes' village, the opening ceremonies and the intense... https://www.scmp.com/article/648770/cook-relishes-second-chance?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648770/cook-relishes-second-chance?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 As the final rider to cross yesterday's finish line, Mary King put her black-gloved hand up to her face, briefly covering her eyes before bringing her hand back down to give Call Again Cavalier a well-deserved pat. King, who moved from ninth to fifth in the individual competition, beamed. The gesture was 'Thank you, God', said King, who 10 minutes later was still beaming. The five-time Olympian was thankful she could compete and gracious that the other four members of her team had completed... https://www.scmp.com/article/648772/kings-late-burst-puts-britain-within-striking-distance-medal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648772/kings-late-burst-puts-britain-within-striking-distance-medal?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Some days after training, there are Italian lessons to give, jewellery to show or a party to cater for. The days are never the same, the work is not always regular, but it is whatever she can do to keep up. 'I think most riders are in a similar position because eventing is such an expensive sport,' said Italian Vittoria Panizzon. 'Most riders try to put in what they can, unless they have a lot of support from sponsors and owners.' So there are the usual riding lessons and the more unusual work... https://www.scmp.com/article/648686/italian-ace-panizzon-works-overtime-make-grade?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648686/italian-ace-panizzon-works-overtime-make-grade?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 10 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 Spanish dressage rider Beatriz Ferrer-Salat has withdrawn from the dressage competition which starts on Wednesday after her horse, Faberge, failed to recover from a leg injury. Ferrer-Salat won Spain's first-ever Olympic dressage medals with a team silver and individual bronze in Athens. 'We waited until the last minute [to withdraw the horse],' chef de mission Bobby de Bobadilla said. 'Trying to recover particularly when you are in competition is difficult because you cannot give any... https://www.scmp.com/article/648696/spanish-hopeful-withdraws?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648696/spanish-hopeful-withdraws?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 10 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 The French described their start to the Games as 'black' - as in 'black Saturday'. 'Black day for French athletes' said Le Point, after no athletes won medals and several medal contenders were knocked out or withdrew, while Le Journal du Dimanche wrote 'Les Bleus draw a blank'. 'Touzaint KO' said L'Equipe, referring to the withdrawal of eventer Nicolas Touzaint's horse, Galan de Sauvagere. At Sha Tin, Touzaint's crushing disappointment, combined with the earlier defection of five-time... https://www.scmp.com/article/648693/french-hopes-hit-black-saturday?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648693/french-hopes-hit-black-saturday?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 10 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000 It was uncertain whether the crowd cheered because of the rider or because the competition had, after such a long preparation, finally gotten under way. But no matter the reason, the crowd which had reached over 8,000 by 7am applauded with alarming energy as New Zealand's Mark Todd finished his dressage test. Todd was the first among 25 competitors during the morning dressage session. 'This is the first time I've ever done a dressage test at 6.30 in the morning,' Todd said. '[But it] doesn't... https://www.scmp.com/article/648618/early-risers-feel-heat-fans-make-presence-felt?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/648618/early-risers-feel-heat-fans-make-presence-felt?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 09 Aug 2008 16:00:00 +0000