How ki bo bae inspired a new generation, 12 years on from london

Ki BoBae is from South Korea and right there you already know this is going to be a list of superlatives. Three-time Olympic gold medalist with four Olympic medals overall makes her one of the most decorated Olympic archers of all time.

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In addition she was a three-time winner at the Archery World Cup finals. The final was shot at Lords Cricket ground in extremely windy conditions. Ki was being matched shot for shot by Mexican Aida Roman. After the 5th set, the match was tied meaning it came down to a 1 arrow shoot off. Shooting first Ki scored an 8 almost on the 9 line.

Ki Bo Bae's influence is unique in how she inspired a newer generation of athletes, many of whom are on the field today.

Fighting the swirling wind Roman also scored an 8 but more centrally in the ring meaning Ki was closer to the centre and so won. Watch the entire 16 minute match here … breathing at times optional. For the next 2 years Ki was a regular in World Cup stages but in lost her edge and found herself off the international squad and watching the Asian Games from the commentary booth.

What happened next was, if you were a Korean female archer facing Ki in competition, pretty terrifying. Returning to international competition, she did not let up. Ki, as part of the ladies recurve team at the Rio games took gold over Russia securing her third Olympic gold medal. Chang outshot Ki in what some felt me included — there was some bad language was an upset.

Ki went on to beat Mexican Alejandra Valencia to win what was for her, a consolation bronze medal.