Olympic champion Gu Ailing kicked off December 2025 in style, leading a historic all-China podium at the Snow League's freeski halfpipe competition yesterday at Zhangjiakou's Genting Snow Park. The hometown hero clinched gold alongside teammates Zhang Kexin (silver) and Li Fanghui (bronze) in a thrilling display of aerial mastery. 🚀
Homecoming Queen Reigns Supreme
Gu, competing in her first halfpipe event in nearly a year, called the victory at her 'home course' particularly emotional. 'Returning to Chongli feels like coming full circle,' she told reporters after landing two flawless final runs. 'Sharing this moment with Zhang and Li – friends I've trained with for years – makes it extra special.'
New Format, Big Drama
The invitation-only Snow League shook up traditional formats with its head-to-head elimination battles, testing athletes' consistency under pressure. Chinese skiers dominated early rounds, with Gu defeating Li and Zhang overcoming America's Svea Irving in semifinal clashes that guaranteed China gold and silver before finals even began. 💥
Winter Sports Powerhouse Flexes
This 1-2-3 finish underscores China's growing influence in freestyle skiing. The result comes as Beijing prepares to host the 2027 FIS Snowboard & Freestyle Ski World Championships, with athletes like Gu leading the charge. 'This victory isn't just mine – it's for everyone pushing winter sports here,' Gu emphasized.
