At the 2024 national festival  -  held every four years  -  Thao was the smallest athlete in her category, standing just 1.48 meters tall and weighing 40 kilograms. Yet she stunned spectators by defeating much larger opponents to bring home gold.

Before that, she had already won top titles at both the district and provincial Phu Dong competitions.

“This result surprised many of my friends and teachers because I’m such a small girl,” Thao said with a bright smile.

Currently a 10th grader in class 10A5 at the Quang Ninh Provincial Boarding High School for Ethnic Minorities, Thao continues to train diligently in her favorite sport.

Her achievement also earned her a place among the Outstanding Ethnic Minority Students and Youth Honorees of 2025, an annual recognition by the Ministry of Ethnic Affairs and Religion. “I feel truly happy and honored to be recognized,” Thao told VietNamNet.

z7363249738199_771729a81f37915721c4a49a91f9503d.jpg
Ly Thi Thao is among the outstanding ethnic minority students honored in 2025 by the Ministry of Ethnic Affairs and Religion. Source: Provided by the subject.

Passion discovered at a school sports day

Thao first discovered her passion for stick pushing in eighth grade, during a sports festival at Quang Thinh Primary and Secondary School.

“I found it fascinating watching my seniors compete. I’ve always loved physical activity and believed I had enough strength, so I asked my teachers to let me try - and I’ve been hooked ever since,” Thao recalled.

According to her, mastering the sport requires strong technique and equal power in both arms and legs. To build stamina, she runs, jumps rope, and climbs stairs every day.

She also practices by pushing a car tire about one meter in diameter. “If the tire feels light, I ask one or two friends to sit on it. Then I push it with both my hands and feet  -  the total weight is over 50 kilograms,” she laughed.

z7363249743690_d6326a4935a52f477b4e4ce789abf5cb.jpg
Ly Thi Thao (right) competing in a stick-pushing match. Source: Provided by the subject.

Overcoming challenges through determination

One of her most memorable experiences came after the 2024 provincial tournament.

“I let myself eat a bit too freely and gained weight,” she said. “To stay within my weight category for the national competition, I had to diet strictly, wear a raincoat, and run every day to lose five kilograms. It was tough, but my goal of competing at the national level kept me going.”

The sport, she said, has taught her perseverance, strength, and resilience.

“I always remind myself to stay active, keep improving, and push harder  -  literally,” Thao shared.

Every evening after school, she continues training to maintain her technique and strength.

z7363249759279_f3c4d4b770e5e4c8de1ce070b217b99e.jpg
Dao ethnic student Ly Thi Thao wins gold in the 40–41kg stick-pushing event at the 10th National Phu Dong Sports Festival. Source: Provided by the subject.

Looking ahead with dreams and determination

Thao now stands 1.5 meters tall and weighs 50 kilograms. Her next goal is to compete in the 50–52kg weight class and continue winning medals in future tournaments.

She also dreams of becoming a physical education teacher to inspire other young people, especially those from ethnic minority communities.

“To achieve that, I know I must keep trying harder,” Thao said softly.

She also hopes her story can encourage others.

“I want to tell my peers: never stop trying. Don’t hesitate or be afraid to pursue what you love and dream about,” she said.

Thanh Hung