The Asian Games has witnessed an unprecedented rise of young skateboarding talent, especially from Team China, as the country’s Generation Z athletes dominate the sport. This new wave of skateboarders has captured attention and brought a fresh energy to the Games.
In a significant highlight, 13-year-old Cui Chenxi redefined records by winning gold in the women’s street final. This achievement quickly eclipsed the recent feat of 15-year-old Chen Ye, who had secured a gold in the men’s park just two days prior.
China’s young skateboarders have indeed made a remarkable impact. They have managed to claim three out of the four gold medals available in skateboarding disciplines. Along with Cui’s impressive victory, Zeng Wenhui, an 18-year-old, clinched silver in the women’s street. In the men’s category, 16-year-old Zhang Jie took home the gold, and his teammate, 19-year-old Su Jianjun, secured a bronze medal. Additionally, in the women’s park final, Li Yujuan and Mao Jiasi added to China’s medal tally by winning silver and bronze respectively.
Cui, reflecting on her performance, said that while she initially made a mistake in her first run, her personal decision to attempt a riskier move on her second attempt paid off. After her victory, with palpable pride and joy, she wore the Chinese national flag and skated around the arena, garnering loud cheers. A particularly touching moment was when her emotional father watched from the audience. For Cui, this victory is just the beginning, as she now sets her sights on the Paris Olympics. She shared her intention to focus on qualification first and then aim to make a significant mark at the event. Zeng, echoing a similar sentiment, also shared her aspiration to qualify for the Paris Olympics.
Zeng had heartwarming words for Cui, praising the young champion’s talent and determination. “You are the future of Team China,” Zeng said to Cui, highlighting her confidence in the younger generation’s potential to elevate the sport.
In the women’s street final, the Philippines’ Mergielyn Didal stood out as the sole competitor above 18. Despite her injury and inability to perform at her best, Didal exhibited commendable sportsmanship. She consistently cheered on her younger competitors, showcasing the unique camaraderie and spirit that skateboarding promotes. According to Didal, even though they were in competition, there’s a shared sense of support and mutual respect among skateboarders.
Skateboarding is distinct from traditional sports, emphasizing creativity and individuality. While it first appeared at the Asian Games in Jakarta in 2018, its true rise in popularity came post its inclusion in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics.
The atmosphere throughout the skateboarding events was vibrant, youthful, and relaxed. As China witnesses the rise of young skateboarders like Cui, Chen, and Zhang, public interest in the sport surges. These teenagers’ confidence and high-performance standards hint at a bright future for skateboarding in China. Both Chen and Zhang expressed their ambitions to compete and excel in future global events, with Zhang specifically aiming for a top-eight finish at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
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