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."

Though he's no stranger to the spotlight, Han admitted that being a flag guardian at this year's Asian Winter Games in his hometown was a special honor. "It's a moment I will never forget," he said. "It's such a proud feeling to see my hometown hosting an event of this magnitude."

Watching the athletes from the stands, Han revealed, was an experience he found more nerve-wracking than competing himself. "Watching Lin Xiaojun fight for the gold, my heart was racing with him," Han recalled. "The difference between being an athlete and a spectator is profound."

As an athlete, Han once focused solely on winning the gold. "I always carried the mission of bringing home the medal," he said. "But now, as a spectator, my hope is that each athlete can perform at their best and achieve the success they deserve."

After claiming gold at Beijing 2022, Han announced a year later that, due to injuries and physical limitations, he would not return to the ice competitively, and would withdraw from all events in the 2026 Winter Olympics cycle. In the same year, he took on a new role at Tsinghua University, where he now teaches ice skating and figure skating.

Drawing on his years of experience as an athlete, Han has shared his insights on sportsmanship with his students. "When students encounter setbacks or challenges in life, I hope they can relate to the process of me getting up after each fall — each time it's a different experience, a transformation," he explained.

With his career shift, Han has focused more on promoting the development of winter sports. "Whether I'm involved with international organizations or teaching, my focus is on advancing and popularizing winter sports. It's not just a promise — it's about taking concrete steps to make it happen," he said.

Han has seen remarkable progress in winter sports development in the past two years, particularly in Northeast China and across the country. "I'm seeing more children, accompanied by their parents, coming to experience the joy of ice and snow. The resources available are improving, with better facilities, quality ice rinks and optimal conditions, like lighting and temperature," he said.

He also pointed out that many universities and high schools now have ice rinks, offering students the chance to enjoy ice skating.

"I've asked my students how they feel about skating, and they tell me it's unlike anything on land. They experience the thrill of speed, even if they're not skating fast. But the joy they get from being on the ice is immense," Han said.

"Winter sports require intense focus, while also improving balance and foot control, which benefits overall fitness. Not only does it help with weight loss, but it also strengthens the body," he added.

For Han, skating brings a sense of rejuvenation, regardless of age. "The ice rink and snow fields have a refreshing effect. When you're enjoying yourself, dopamine is released, and you start to feel like you're still capable of performing in sports. It makes you feel young — not just in mind, but physically as well," he said.

Factfile

Name:Han Cong

Age:32

Height:170 centimeters

Birthplace:Harbin, Heilongjiang province

Sport:Figure skating, pairs

Achievements:

2022 Beijing Winter Olympics: Gold

World Figure Skating Championships in 2017 and 2019: Gold

2014 Four Continents Figure Skating Championships: Gold