Competing in the Olympics (!!!)

She lost to Mariana Sahakian of Lebanon 4-1 in the preliminary rounds on July 27.

But despite this outcome, Zeng walked away from the experience with nothing but pride.

Side by side photo of older female athletes at the Paris Olympics

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I love this country.

I didnt reach my dream in China, and I have here.

Its important not to give up.

Photo of Laura Kraut

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But theres one thing, she says, that defines her double-decade career: resilience.

There were times I wanted to give up, and there were times when I wanted to quit.

Sometimes you have to work through a lot of disappointment and failure to succeed.

Photo of Zhiying Zeng

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In Paris, she placed 38th in the 10-meter air pistol event and 40th in the 25-meter pistol.

Despite her achievements, her age has often been scrutinized.

Im here to compete.

Photo of Malindi Elmore

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Im here to play at a high level.

Im here to give to my teammates and Im here to win a gold medal.

I dont care about the last 20 years.

Photo of Simone Biles

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Im worried about the next 20 years.

I needed to step away and figure out what I really wanted to do….

Being around the girls really solidified that this is where Im supposed to be.

Photo of Ni Xia Lian

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