Beloved former athlete not snowed into one role

"After each event, Qu, the core team, and I would review the day's results, identify problems, and find solutions to resolve them quickly," Han says.

Athletes praised Yabuli's organization and support during the Asian Winter Games. Beijing Winter Olympics champion Xu Mengtao, who won two golds and one silver in freestyle skiing aerials at Yabuli, called it her first gold in 18 years of participating.

"The venues and environment here are so familiar and welcoming. I'm thrilled to compete on home soil," Xu says. "The organizing committee has done an excellent job and I've experienced that support firsthand."

Looking back on his role, Qu reflects, "In 1996, I aimed to showcase the strength of Chinese cross-country skiers. Today, my job is to show that Harbin and China can host a world-class winter sports event."

Qu notes that winter sports have evolved over the past 30 years, benefiting millions. "Harbin is the city of Olympic champions, and now we host high-level events that will push the development of competitive sports and the winter sports industry."

Contact the writer at liyingxue@chinadaily.com.cn