They are drawing the attention of the world. They are the backbone of
the force that is going to shape our future. Who are they? They are the
young generation who were born after 2000.
This year, several young athletes have shone brightly at the Beijing
Winter Olympics, giving us a glimpse of their generation’s nature.
Obviously, the young generation is filled with "brave warriors" who want
to challenge impossibilities and push boundaries. Freestyle skier Gu Ailing
is a good example. After she finished strong in the first two jumps in the
women's freeski Big Air event, it was certain that she could get a medal. But
instead of playing it safe, the 18-year-old skier pushed herself to the limit.
On the last jump, Gu decided to attempt a difficult trick: a left double cork
1620-four and a half rotations in the air-before landing.
"I have never done the 'left 16' before. I hadn’t prepared much for it apart
from two days on the air bag," Gu told China Daily, "[but] I felt it was a chance
to push myself to the limit".
But for these young athletes, the sport is never just about scores, but also about
having as much fun as possible.
Born in the US, Gu faced criticism and doubts for representing China in the Beijing
Winter Olympics.
When questioned by The Guardian at a news conference on Feb 8, the "post-00"
said bluntly that she wasn't trying to make everyone happy.
"I'm an 18-year-old girl out here living my best life. I'm having a great time," Gu
said. "It doesn't really matter if other people are happy or not, because I feel I'm
doing my best and I’m enjoying the entire process."
Gu's good friend, Chinese snowboarder Su Yiming also shares a similar attitude.
He takes sports as a way to have fun.
After he was judged to have lost the gold to Canadian athlete Max Parrot in the
men's slopestyle final, the 17-year-old didn't feel upset. Instead, he was happy
to have the chance to compete with his idol.
"When I was on the podium hugging Max Parrot, it felt unreal," Su told China Daily.
"All I did today was enjoy the runs and concentrate on my tricks. As long as I am on
my snowboard I am happy."
This is young generation that dares to push the limits but also enjoys life.