Beijing, China – As spring ushers in warmer temperatures reaching 20 degrees Celsius, Beijing’s Winter Olympic venues continue to hum with activity, defying any off-season lull. The National Speed Skating Oval, famously known as the “Ice Ribbon”, recently hosted the China National Speed Skating Championships from Thursday to Sunday, drawing over 80 elite athletes from across the country.
Alemasi Kahanbai, a 26-year-old athlete representing northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, expressed his excitement about competing in the iconic venue. “The competition is a test for my training,” he said. “I could still feel the atmosphere of the Winter Olympics when I entered the Ice Ribbon. My goal is to achieve my best at the Asian Winter Games next year and the 2026 Winter Olympics.”
Kahanbai also highlighted the emergence of young talent in the sport. “More youth skaters have improved rapidly to become a force at the senior level, heralding a promising future for China’s speed skating,” he added.
The sustained use of the Ice Ribbon exemplifies Beijing’s commitment to promoting winter sports and maximizing the legacy of the Olympic facilities. By hosting national competitions and fostering athletic development, the city ensures that its state-of-the-art venues remain vibrant hubs for sport throughout the year.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
