They call him the “snowboarding lunatic.” Zhang Jiahao is defined by his love for snowboarding, mountaineering, and skiing. An adventurer at heart, he’s always on the move, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
At 17, Zhang was a baker at a hotel restaurant in the Chinese mainland. His life took a dramatic turn when he discovered snowboarding. “The first time I went snowboarding was in 2012 with my high school classmates while I was still working at the Kempinski Hotel,” Zhang recalled.
His passion for the sport grew rapidly. Without access to formal training, Zhang and his friends relied on videos from platforms like Youku and shared tips among themselves. “There were no instructional videos, so everything was about discussing ideas with friends. We all learned from each other, watching videos and experimenting. That was the most fun part,” he said.
Zhang’s dedication paid off as he climbed the ranks to become a professional snowboarder. He set his sights on the Beijing Winter Olympics, embarking on a solo journey around the world in an attempt to qualify. Although he didn’t make the Olympic team, his story resonated with many, turning him into one of China’s most beloved winter sport athletes.
“I didn’t make it to the Winter Olympics, but then I realized something. I did something that everyone wants to do but few have the courage to actually try,” Zhang shared.
Undeterred, he shifted his focus to freeride snowboarding, aiming for the Freeride World Tour (FWT), a competition that could potentially become an Olympic sport. “God gave me another chance, so here I am again,” he laughed.
Zhang continues to challenge himself, now embracing mountain skiing, which demands high endurance. Despite numerous injuries—including broken limbs, punctured lungs, and multiple concussions—his passion remains unshaken.
“The original motivation has always been my source of passion. It’s about pursuing what you love, achieving your goals step by step, and enjoying the process,” Zhang explained. For him, it’s not just about the thrill but the sense of accomplishment. “When you climb up and ride a line that only you can do and look back to see your mark on the snow, that’s your own,” he said.
Every day, Zhang prepares meticulously, driven by a relentless pursuit of challenges. His journey is a testament to giving everything you have and leaving the rest up to fate. It’s a journey to discover the true meaning of life, inspiring others to follow their passions no matter the obstacles.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
