XIAMEN, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Just two days before the highly anticipated Wanda Diamond League event in Xiamen, four esteemed athletes brought an electrifying buzz to a local school on Thursday.
Amidst a warm reception from the students, the atmosphere crackled with excitement as three-time world champion sprinter Fred Kerley, indoor women's 60 meters hurdles world record holder Devynne Charlton, and pole vault stars Sam Kendricks and Chris Nilsen graced the halls of Shangwen Experimental School.
They generously shared their wisdom and advice for achieving success with the eager students, fostering an inspiring exchange of knowledge and motivation.
"Being able to handle losing very well," Nilsen responded to the most important element for success. "If you're able to handle your losses very well, the rest of your career will be very easy."
The athletes were soon surrounded by students for autographs before starting the training session on the track and field ground.
During the training session, Kerley was drawn to a young student athlete struggling with his starting block setup. Without fanfare, he quietly corrected the issue and proceeded to demonstrate his starting technique multiple times, despite initially suggesting he would only do so once.
Reflecting on the significance of such engagements, Kerley shared, "I absolutely love it, being in front of the world, going to every continent, I feel like it's lovely just to give back, and let them understand sports is something that we are doing, and it's culture."
Expressing a personal wish for similar mentorship during his own formative years, Kerley added, "It definitely motivates the future." As the session drew to a close, he inspired young athletes to "stay disciplined, stay hungry, and stay patient."
The season-opening Wanda Diamond League event will be held on Saturday at Egret Stadium in Xiamen. Enditem
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