Olympian helps young skaters figure out their future

When the Asian Winter Games were last held in Heilongjiang provincial capital of Harbin in 1996, Han Cong — then just a toddler — had no idea that his hometown would again host the event, and that he would figure so prominently in that encore.

Though the 32-year-old, Beijing Winter Olympics gold medalist was not competing, his presence was still felt. Han served as a guardian of the national flag during the opening ceremony, watched the Chinese team competing at short-track speed skating events, and participated in a range of activities promoting sportsmanship.

Reflecting on his journey, Han shared at Harbin Ice and Snow World: "From the ice rinks of my hometown to Olympic arenas, my love for the sport has always driven me to face challenges, embrace adversity and chase my dreams."