Live action at ISU World Tour: Olympian icon enjoys thrilling short track race with CGTN

It's not every day that you have the opportunity to watch a live match alongside a three-time Olympian and a national icon, but that's exactly what happened for CGTN editor Shen Xiang during the Beijing stop of the ISU Short Track World Tour, as she enjoyed the men's 500m race with Kazakh short-track speed skater Abzal Azhgaliyev.

Azhgaliyev made history in 2016 when he became the first short track skater from Kazakhstan to stand atop the podium at a World Cup event, clinching victory in the 500m in Salt Lake City. He has also proudly carried the flag for Kazakhstan at the opening ceremonies of both the 2022 Olympic Winter Games in Beijing and the 2018 Games in PyeongChang.

In a lighthearted yet poignant conversation with Shen, Azhgaliyev shared his thoughts on the upgraded World Tour and the new suit design, commending the ice rink and facilities at the Capital Indoor Stadium in Beijing. The 32-year-old athlete also lauded Sun Long's outstanding performance in the men's 500m race, highlighting the Chinese star's remarkable versatility.

Reflecting on his fourth-place finish at the Beijing 2022 Olympics, Azhgaliyev expressed his determination to build on that performance as he sets his sights on the 2026 Games, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the sport and his country.