Geng Xiaoling loses Asian Games title but claims Hong Kong’s only wushu medal

Geng Xiaoling failed to defend her Asian Games title but won Hong Kong’s only medal in wushu when she finished second in the women’s changquan in Incheon on Tuesday.

The 31-year-old scored 9.63 points among 13 participants, well behind gold medal winner Kan Wencong of China who had 9.75. Third place went to Tan Yan Ni of Singapore, also with 9.63 points.

Geng’s silver medal was a relief for the wushu team, who won one gold and two silver medals in Guangzhou four years ago.

“I didn’t feel any pressure beforehand but since we haven’t won any medal yet, the responsibility suddenly fell on me and fortunately I did not make any big mistake to come second,” she said. “I am not too disappointed about losing my title because a silver medal is not easy to achieve and not a bad result in such a high level.”

The veteran, who arrived in Hong Kong from the mainland in 2005, admitted it was time to consider her future.

 “I haven’t planned my future yet but if the team still want an experienced athlete like me to lead the youngsters at next year’s world championships, I am more than happy to do so,” she said. “If not, I will consider retirement.”