From baker to snowboarding icon: The story of Zhang Jiahao

People call him the "snowboarding lunatic."

Snowboarding, mountaineering, skiing – Zhang Jiahao is defined by these sports.

An adventurer outdoorsman at heart, he's a one-man show, always on the move.

Three years ago, Zhang set out on a solo mission, traveling the world in an attempt to qualify for the Beijing Winter Olympics. He came up short, but his story turned him into one of China's most famous and 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," said Zhang Jiahao, the National Snowboard Champion.

The 30 year old discovered snowboarding at the age of 17, back when he was a baker at a hotel restaurant.

"The first time I went snowboarding was in 2012. I was with my high school classmates, and I was still working at the Kempinski Hotel."

Zhang ultimately chose his own path. After discovering the sport, his skills and passion grew rapidly. He worked his way into the ranks of professionals and set his sights on the Olympics.

"At that time, the internet wasn't as developed as it is now. We were just starting to use WeChat and still on QQ. We watched videos of snowboarding pioneers on platforms like Youku. There were no instructional videos, so everything was about discussing ideas with friends. So we all learned from each other, watching videos and experimenting. That was the most fun part,” Zhang recalled.

Despite falling countless times, Zhang remained enchanted by snowboarding. "I've broken both my hands and legs, had my lungs punctured, and suffered multiple concussions."

His original motivation continues to be a driving force to this day. "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."

As he continued pursuing his passion, Zhang gradually achieved his goals, landing tricks and completing challenging runs, entering national competitions, and winning championships.

When his Olympic dream didn't materialize, Zhang shifted his focus to freeride snowboarding, a competition called the FWT (Freeride World Tour) – a competition that could potentially become an Olympic sport, offering him another chance. "God gave me another chance, so here I am again," Zhang laughed.

Now, Zhang continues to challenge himself with mountain skiing, which requires high levels of endurance. I followed and asked him what drives him to take on these dangerous challenges.

"I think it's more about a sense of achievement. On the slopes, there are always marks left by others. But 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,” Zhang explained.

Every day is about preparation. A relentless pursuit of challenges and passion mix together for Zhang. It's exactly the mindset he thrives in, giving his everything and leaving the rest up to fate.

It's a journey to discover the true meaning of life.