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Amber Zhou said she is looking forward to joining the New Zealand Team
Amber Zhou will make history as the first New Zealander selected to compete in Wushu at an Olympic-level event after being named in the New Zealand Team for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
Dakar 2026 will be the first Olympic Games held on African soil and will feature Wushu on the sport programme for the first time.
New Zealand Olympic Committee CEO, Nicki Nicol, said Zhou's selection was an important moment for both the athlete and the sport.
“Being selected to represent New Zealand is a significant achievement and a reflection of the commitment and hard work Amber has shown in pursuing her sport,” said Nicol.
“We look forward to supporting Amber on this journey and welcoming her to the New Zealand Team later this year.”
Kung-Fu Wushu New Zealand Inc, Glen Keith said Amber’s selection for Dakar 2026 marks a historic and defining moment for Wushu in New Zealand.
“This recognises Amber’s achievement on an international youth sporting platform, and highlights Wushu’s profile as a fast-growing, dynamic global sport. Dakar 2026 will be an opportunity for people to witness the spirit, artistry, and ambition of sport Wushu as it takes its place on the Olympic stage.”
Amber Zhou said she is looking forward to joining the New Zealand Team.
“I feel incredibly grateful to my family, my coach and my teammates to be able to represent New Zealand at such a high level. I hope this paves a new path for Wushu in New Zealand and inspires young girls, like me back then, to pick up their training shoes and be glad they chose Wushu,” said Zhou.