Faith overcomes fate

The above achievement not only brought him 4th place overall in the tournament gathering more than 500 athletes from 70 countries and territories, but more importantly, helped Le Van Cong officially pass the first qualifying round, starting his journey to conquer the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics in the US.

Le Van Cong’s 20-year journey of affirming the position of Vietnamese disabled sports in the international arena is an epic of will, determination and aspiration to overcome fate. It is a path that, according to him, was written with sweat, tears and a will to never give up.

The journey to train "steel spirit"

Le Van Cong's life was a challenge from the very beginning. Born in Ha Tinh , with atrophied legs, his childhood was full of hardship and sadness. However, when talking about the past, he never complained, but on the contrary, he was always grateful to his relatives and friends who helped him. It was that optimism and determination that became the luggage for him to go to Ho Chi Minh City to start a career.

- Ảnh 1. — Athlete Le Van Cong trains at the National Sports Training Center in Ho Chi Minh City.

His path to professional sports was also a special opportunity. At that time, he was learning a trade and taking computer courses at the Vocational Guidance Club for the Disabled. It was the head teacher here, who was also the head of the Tan Binh District Sports Club for the Disabled (formerly), who discovered Cong's potential and introduced him to the club.

Mr. Cong said that the first days of getting used to using iron weights were very difficult. He lived far away, so transportation was a big obstacle, and the facilities at that time were extremely poor, with specialized equipment both lacking and limited.

To pursue his passion in such a harsh environment, Mr. Cong had to balance everything himself, trying to find a harmonious balance between studying, working, and training. He did not have a fixed schedule, but could only take advantage of his free time during the week to go to the gym.

And then, all perseverance pays off. Overcoming all challenges, Le Van Cong's career began to blossom, with a series of brilliant achievements. He is not only an athlete, he is a champion, a record holder. His collection includes all the gold, silver and bronze Paralympic medals. Besides, he holds both the Paralympic record and the world record.

In recognition of athlete Le Van Cong's contributions to the country's sports, the Party and the State have awarded him noble medals such as the First, Second and Third Class Labor Medals and numerous certificates of merit at all levels. Cong shared that for him personally, the most memorable moment and a milestone in his career was the gold medal at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics (Brazil).

"That was Vietnam's first gold medal at the Paralympics, and also broke the record of the Games. That medal is not only a personal glory, but also a highlight for me to try not to disappoint everyone's trust," Cong proudly said.

Sports is life and family is support

For Le Van Cong, weightlifting is not a walk in the park or a temporary choice. He always seriously considers sports as his own profession. He sees sports not only as bringing glory but also as bringing many life experiences.

- Ảnh 2. — Mr. Cong is a shining example with the spirit of constant effort.

When asked what made his success, Le Van Cong affirmed that it was his family. Family is the most solid support and rear. He came to Ho Chi Minh City to start a business alone, so the small family he built is a source of boundless motivation. He said that every time he goes to train or compete away from home, "99% of the time, his wife stays home to take care of the family and two small children."

The silent sacrifice and absolute support of his wife and children is the most valuable motivation, helping him feel secure in practicing and developing his sports career.

After more than 20 years of experience and glory, athlete Le Van Cong now takes on a new role, as the one who inspires the younger generation of athletes. He enthusiastically guides his juniors in every small technique: from how to get used to weights, develop muscle groups to aligning the barbell and controlling breathing. Cong also shares his own experiences and lessons in overcoming difficulties, so that young athletes can gain more confidence and courage on the stage.

Athlete Le Van Cong is one of 478 typical examples in the patriotic emulation movement of Ho Chi Minh City and represents the city's disabled people to attend the 11th National Patriotic Emulation Congress in December in Hanoi. For him, this is not only a personal recognition but also a great opportunity to create a voice for sports in general and sports for people with disabilities in particular.

"Through my life story, I hope people will understand, love and support disabled sports more," Cong said.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/niem-tin-vuot-len-so-phan-185251106192237782.htm