As Beijing hosts the ISU World Short Track Championships, the icy tracks are sizzling with energy! 🥌 In a chat with Sports Scene, ISU journalist Luke Norman and NOS Sport editor Rutger Hekman spilled the tea on China’s explosive love affair with short track skating. 🇨🇳
"From zero to hero," Norman remarked, highlighting how China transformed into a winter sports powerhouse. With top-tier venues and a growing fanbase cheering louder than K-pop concerts, the sport has become a cultural phenomenon. 👏
The Dutch team’s dominance—think of them as the ‘BTS of speed skating’—adds global flair. But Hekman says the real win is China’s grassroots push: "You see kids dreaming of gold, not just hockey goals now." 🌟
Both experts predict a bright future: More nations joining the race, tech-driven training, and viral moments sure to break the internet. Whether you’re here for the speed or the drama, skating’s cool factor is here to stay. ❄️
