Gong Jinjie, gold medalist of the Women's Team Sprint cycling event at the 2016 Rio Olympics Games, returned to her hometown Jilin on August 22. Gong Jinjie and Zhong Tianshi won gold with a time of 32.107 seconds, the first gold medal in China's cycling history. Gong is the first Jilin summer Olympics champion.

Gong Jinjie, co-champion in Rio in Women's Team Sprint cycling.[Photo/chinajilin.com.cn]

Gong and her teammates arrived in Rio ten days before the opening of the games to adapt to the weather and facilities. Although it's winter in Rio, the weather was good and volunteers were very passionate about helping the new arrivals.

The attractive helmet she wore in the competition.[Photo/chinajilin.com]

Gong's cycling helmet drew many people's attention. It depicts a Peking Opera character in stage makeup. The character is Mu Guiying, a cultural symbol of a steadfast woman from ancient China's Northern Song Dynasty and a prominent figure in the Generals of the Yang Family legends.

"It was a sudden idea to bring a Chinese symbol to the International stage, so designers helped us choose facial makeup for the helmet. My helmet is Mu Guiying, a brave woman," Gong said.

Gong and her partner Zhong trained every day to try to achieve "zero mistakes" in their racing techniques. Chinese cyclists struggled for many years to achieve this gold medal. It was just a goal for this period; there will be a new goal for the next one. Chinese cyclists have long way to ride.

Because of long-term exercise, Gong has significant knee and waist injuries, which she overcame. She and Zhong did not have time to think about injuries; they thought only of the competition.

Gong will now have a long rest with her family. And then, she will go back the cycling track.

Gong never thinks about retirement. But if she did retire, she has no desire to be a cycling coach -- she would choose a stable life with a beautiful baby.

Gong Jinjie, a lovely and steadfast girl.[Photo/chinajilin.com.cn]

Gong Jinjie warmly expressed her best wishes to all her fans and everyone who supports her.