'Brighter future'

For Sun and Bao, attending the Tokyo Olympics was already a dream come true.

"This is the first time that Team China is able to attend the Olympic team eventing competition. This is just a start and I believe in a brighter future for Chinese equestrian sport," said Sun.

"We have made history. I think all sports are the same. We may not get what we want even if we try, but if we don't even try, it's certain we will achieve nothing."

Bao was thrilled with his debut, saying: "My first Olympic journey has ended in a perfect way. I have so many things to say and so many people to thank.

"Frankly speaking, the first time I knew I was going to prepare for the Olympics, I felt everything was too far away, but I just chose to trust myself…The Tokyo Olympics has ended but my equestrian journey has just started."

Sun, 30, only began riding a decade ago, when he first visited an equestrian club with a friend.

After ranking last among all the riders in his first competition in 2013, a despondent Sun asked to quit the team, only for the team leader to refuse his request.

"I remember my team leader told me that I was still young and I still have chances. His words and that trust continue to motivate me until this day. Those words have influenced my professional career and changed my life."

Now with Olympic experience under his belt, Sun is even more determined to pursue his equestrian dreams and hopes to "encourage the next generation of Chinese riders".