Inner Mongolia clinches 12th gold at National Winter Games

Yang Hao showcases his skills in the men's Freeski Big Air Competition of the 14th National Winter Games, Feb 17. [Photo/Grassland Media]

The Freeski Big Air Competition of the 14th National Winter Games took flight at the Zhalantun Jinlong Mountain Ski Resort on Feb 17. The day witnessed the crowning of two gold medalists in the open group of men's and women's events.

Hailing from Inner Mongolia, athlete Yang Hao secured gold in the men's open group, marking the 12th gold medal for the Inner Mongolia team. Meanwhile, Liu Mengting from the Jilin team claimed the gold medal in the women's open group.

Yang's stellar performance in the first two rounds of the competition led to his ultimate triumph, with a total score of 174.75. As a local from Zhalantun, Yang began skiing at the Zhalantun Amateur Sports School at the age of 11.

Liu Mengting showcases skills in the women's Freeski Big Air Competition of the 14th National Winter Games, Feb 17. [Photo/Grassland Media]

"After training for eight years, today's gold medal is a testament to the guidance of my coach, the support of my parents, and my relentless efforts," Yang expressed. "I've brought honor to my hometown and have made my parents proud!"

Yang also expressed his hopes of delivering an even better performance in the upcoming freeski slopestyle competition, striving to clinch his second gold medal.

In the women's events, 19-year-old rising star Liu Mengting showcased consistent performances, securing victory with a lead of nearly 10 points over the second-place finisher, ultimately earning a score of 167.00.

Reflecting on her win, Liu stated, "I felt better today than in the training sessions over the last few days, and this gold medal was part of the plan. Freeski big air is my specialty, but I will continue to strive for gold in the upcoming freeski slopestyle competition."

Yang Hao (Middle) is awarded a gold medal in the men's Freeski Big Air Competition of the 14th National Winter Games, Feb 17. [Photo/Grassland Media]