Chinese first-ever Olympic equestrian eventing rider Hua Tian said here Wednesday that he will partner with "Mulan" in the 2012 London Olympic Games.
The 18-year-old rider was disqualified after he fell from his horse "Chico" by making a mistake at fence no. 8 during the cross-country competition on Aug. 11.
"I'm feeling much better now," said Hua at a press conference Wednesday afternoon, adding that he was angry about himself to have made the mistake, but felt happy to have support from the spectators.
Hua said that his next goals will be the world championship and Asian Games in 2010. He has also planned to join his horse "Mulan" in the next Olympic Games, describing her character as "calm and relax".
Hua said "Mulan" will reach the age of 13, which is the best condition for a horse to take part in eventing, by 2012 when the London Games is held.
Hua is going to finish high school, which will make only one more year, and then decide whether he will continue his studies or to become a full time rider.
With Chinese heritage from his father and a horsy background from his British mother, Hua gained his berth for the Olympics at an eventing competition held in Poland at the end of April.
Hua said he will go to Beijing to attend the closing ceremony of the Games. He expressed satisfaction over the facilities and arrangement of the Equestrian Games held in the city.
(Xinhua News Agency August 14, 2008)