Windsurfer Lee Lai-shan wins Hong Kong’s first Olympic gold in 1996 – SCMP archive

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Lee Lai-shan became Hong Kong's first Olympic gold medalist by winning the windsurfing event at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, bringing historic pride to the region after 44 years without Olympic medals. Her victory was celebrated nationwide, marking a significant moment in Hong Kong sports history.

This article was first published on July 30, 1996. Our golden girl by Nazvi Careem and Scott McKenzie Cheers and tears swept Hong Kong yesterday (July 29, 1996) on the back of the golden victory for Olympic windsurfer Lee Lai-shan. The 25-year-old from Cheung Chau won a gold medal for herself and glory for Hong Kong after 44 years of fruitless Olympic competition when she crossed the finish line at Savannah, Georgia, at 5.56 am (Hong Kong time). Tears streamed down her face as she hugged fiance...