A very young wushu artist who transformed herself from being just a darling of the crowd to a national champion is The Freeman’s Athlete of the Month for April. She is none other than the amiable Richelle Marie Ng.
Richelle was only four years old when she wanted to learn the ropes of wushu. But due to her tender age, she was admitted for training only after she was almost six.
The eldest daughter of Richard Ng was the youngest ever competitor in a national wushu competition. On top of that, she was youngest player to clinch a gold medal via the 2008 National Wushu Championships at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
Richelle’s routine in her second try was much advanced for her age, paving the way for her to outclass older rivals and come up with a golden performance in the junior changquan event.
After the tournament, Richelle was given a special award by the Kang Ha Uy clan for her achievement. She will be accorded with the same commendation by the city government of Mandaue during its Charter Day celebration.
More than being the youngest national champion, Richelle also served as an eye-opener for wushu trainors and officials to train kids and admit them in competitions.
Richelle has fulfilled what her father wanted. However, her feat means something more and brings a bigger challenge for her.That is to stay humble and train even harder as everyone is now looking forward to see what amazing thing she will do next.