Hua Tian with his horse Chocs Photo: Courtesy of the International Federation for Equestrian Sports

The Chinese equestrian eventing team is gearing up for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Leading the charge are seasoned riders Hua Tian and Sun Huadong, both of whom will compete as individuals.

Their preparation comes on the heels of a dominant performance at the Hangzhou Asian Games, where the Chinese team clinched the team gold, and Hua secured an individual gold - China's first in equestrian history at the Asian Games.

Having outperformed their regional competitors, the Chinese riders are now turning their focus to the world's biggest sporting stage. In Paris, they will compete in three phases: dressage on July 27, cross-country on July 28, and show jumping on July 29, against some of the world's best riders.

For Hua, the Paris Games mark his fourth Olympic appearance.

Debuting as an 18-year-old in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, he reflects on his journey with humility.

"It's strange to think that I should now consider myself an experienced rider, but I don't feel that way," said the 34-year-old. "I still have so much to learn and accomplish."

Having competed in China, Brazil, and Japan, Hua is particularly excited about Paris.

"The Beijing Olympics were a home event for me, but Paris will be different. Equestrianism is deeply ingrained in French culture, especially eventing. The enthusiasm for cross-country here is incredible," he said.

He is eager to compete at the historic grounds of the Palace of Versailles, which he describes as "iconic and destined to be a classic."

Hua will be riding "Chocs," his trusted horse with whom he won an international event in Montelibretti, Italy last year.

Sun Huadong (right) with coach Martin Lips Photo: Courtesy of the International Federation for Equestrian Sports

Sun, buoyed by his success at the Asian Games, where he helped China win team gold and placed fourth individually with "Lady Chin V't Moerven Z," is also setting his sights high for Paris.

"Lady is my only choice for the Olympics, so I've been cautious with her training, ensuring she is well-prepared and in peak condition," Sun said.

Known for her contrasting temperament - calm and affectionate in the stables, yet excitable and nervous during competitions - Sun has spent considerable time ensuring she is relaxed and ready.

"Lady has matured significantly since the Tokyo Olympics," Sun said. "Our preparation has been about refining our performance, and I am confident in our partnership heading into Paris."

The Olympic equestrian events will begin on July 26, with the Chinese team among the first to settle into the state-of-the-art facilities at Versailles.

"Transporting the horses from their respective stables in the UK and the Netherlands was a critical task, and we've managed it smoothly. All the horses are healthy and ready to compete," said Chinese team leader Jia Dapeng.