Big Air Shougang, the venue for big air events at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics Photo: VCG
Snowboard and Freestyle Ski Stars Convene at Beijing’s Big Air Shougang
Beijing plays host to a world-class gathering of big air snowboarding and freeskiing talent as the FIS World Cup descends upon the Big Air Shougang. Taking place on Friday, this event also serves as a stepping stone towards the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics. Over 170 athletes representing more than 20 countries and territories will be vying for honors and crucial qualification points. Among them are world-renowned competitors such as China’s Su Yiming, Norway’s Birk Ruud, and Swiss star Mathilde Gremaud.
Team China Ready to Soar
Team China will be represented by five snowboarders (three men and two women), including Olympic champion Su Yiming, and eight freestyle skiers (three men and five women).
On Thursday, Su treated spectators to a preview of his skills, making significant progress on the demanding backside triple cork 1980 during a training session at the state-of-the-art Big Air Shougang.
“I feel great about how it’s going,” Su enthused, emphasizing his mastery of the move. “My goal for this competition is to focus on upgrading the quality of my overall performance by pushing the limits of difficulty and gaining more experience competing against the best in the world. I also have new tricks I’m excited to try. Obviously, safety and consistency are my top priorities in every competition. This is an important process in building towards the Milan Winter Olympics in 2026, so I’ll keep working hard and enjoy every opportunity to learn and grow.”
Su’s passion for snowboarding fuels his dedication to improvement.
“I want to make the most of every chance to compete, learn from my experiences and always aim higher,” he said.
From Industrial Icon to Winter Sports Haven
The Big Air Shougang is situated within the Shougang Industrial Park, nestled in a former industrial hub. This iconic venue boasts facilities blending sport, culture, and leisure since undergoing a meticulous transformation prior to the 2022 Winter Olympics, showcasing Beijing’s urban developments.
The ISU Short Track World Cup
Following the big air event, Beijing will host the ISU Short Track World Cup from December 6th to 8th at the impressive Capital Indoor Stadium.
Her voice resonated with determination when she stated, “The competitive landscape in short track speed skating has undergone a remarkable shift. Many countries have produced exceptional skaters. I’m putting in the work, concentrat
“
in Beijing,” said Beijing Winter Olympics champion Fan Kexin. “It’s great to be back.”
Fan hasng on simulating the speed and intensity of international races. I’ve been a part of many international competitions, but it’s part of the excitement to be back and challenge myself alongside the best.
”
Four-time Olympian
and world champion snowboarder Liu Jiayu shared her perspective on China’s winter sports boom. “There
has been visible improvement in the quality of ski resort amenities and services. Both venues and opportunities for backcountry skiing are thriving and it’s exciting to witness.”
Liu continued,
”
Skiing is a unifying force. We see those from diverse backgrounds
coming together on the
slopes, forging connections and friendships. I think winter sports not only
elevate
athletic prowess; they nurture a
sense of community, shared
experiences
, and lasting memories. .”
What new tricks is Su Yiming working on for the FIS Snowboard and Freeski Big Air World Cup?
## Interview with Snowboarding Prodigy Su Yiming
**Interviewer:** Su Yiming, welcome! The FIS Snowboard and Freeski Big Air World Cup is about to kick off here at Beijing’s Big Air Shougang. How are you feeling going into this competition?
**Su Yiming:** I feel great! It’s always exciting to compete at home, especially at a venue like Big Air Shougang that holds so many memories from the 2022 Winter Olympics [[1](https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202311/1302663.shtml)]. I’ve been putting in a lot of work and made some good progress on some new tricks.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of new tricks, we saw you land a backside triple cork 1980 during practice yesterday. That’s amazing!
**Su Yiming:** Thanks! I’m feeling confident with that trick now. But my goal isn’t just about landing the hardest tricks. I want to focus on the overall quality of my runs, push my limits, and gain experience competing against the best in the world.
**Interviewer:** This competition is also a stepping stone towards the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics. How important is this event in your preparation?
**Su Yiming:** It’s definitely a crucial event. Every competition is a learning experience. I’ll use this opportunity to test myself, see where I stand against the competition, and refine my skills before Milan.
**Interviewer:** You’ve achieved so much already at such a young age, becoming Olympic champion in 2022. What keeps you motivated?
**Su Yiming:** My passion for snowboarding keeps me pushing forward. I love the feeling of flying through the air, landing new tricks, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. I want to make the most of every opportunity to grow and improve.
**Interviewer:** Well, we wish you all the best of luck in the competition, Su Yiming.
**Su Yiming:** Thank you!