John Loung

Representing Hong Kong since 1999, boccia para-athlete John Loung achieved a career-defining moment at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where he secured gold in the men’s individual BC1 boccia event. This victory not only marked his first Paralympic medal but also Hong Kong’s inaugural medal at the 2024 Games​.

Born with cerebral palsy, Loung competes in the BC1 classification, which includes athletes with severe impairments affecting all limbs. Despite physical challenges like muscle spasms and limited coordination, Loung has mastered his sport through rigorous training and mental fortitude.

Loung’s path to victory was far from linear. His best individual Paralympic performance prior to Paris was a ninth-place finish in Beijing 2008, and he missed qualification for the Tokyo 2020 Games. Undeterred, he treated each setback as an opportunity to grow, approaching every competition as a fresh start. His gold medal in Paris stands as a reward for his resilience and commitment to excellence​.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Loung is an advocate for boccia and para-athletics in Hong Kong. As a full-time athlete since 2017, he has not only raised the profile of the sport but also inspired a new generation of players. Loung’s legacy extends beyond the court, as he continues to champion inclusivity and strive for greater representation of para-athletes on the world stage.