by sportswriters He Leijing, Wang Qinou and Ma Kai

HARBIN, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- At just 19 years old, Buluer has already left his mark on China's ski mountaineering scene. After winning gold in the men's sprint at the 9th Asian Winter Games on February 9, he followed up with another gold in the mixed relay alongside Cidanyuzhen. These victories reinforced China's dominance in the sport ahead of its 2026 Winter Olympics debut.

China's strong showing at the Asian Winter Games-sweeping the top four spots in the men's and women's short-distance events and claiming all mixed relay titles-signals a promising future. But for Buluer, ski mountaineering is more than just a competition. It's deeply tied to his roots in Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, where skiing has been part of daily life for centuries.

A CHILDHOOD SHAPED BY THE MOUNTAINS

Born in 2005 in Hemu Village, Buluer grew up helping his parents with herding. His first experience with skiing came at age seven or eight, navigating deep snow on traditional fur-covered skis-a method passed down through generations.

"Hemu's snowfall was incredible, sometimes over two meters deep," Buluer recalled. He and his friends would spend their free time skiing through the mountains, developing the endurance and skillset that would later define his competitive career.

"The way we skied back then-climbing up rugged terrain and weaving through obstacles on the way down-is exactly what ski mountaineering is about today," he said. "That's why I feel such a strong connection to this sport."

In 2021, Buluer joined the Xinjiang ski mountaineering team, and by 2022, he had earned a spot on China's national training squad. A quiet and reserved figure off the slopes, he transforms into a fierce competitor once the race begins.

At the 2023 Ski Mountaineering Youth World Cup in Norway, he made history by becoming the first Chinese male to win a world championship title in the sport, taking gold in the U20 men's cross-country event.

"My biggest strength is that I'm well-rounded, without any major weaknesses," he said. "I'm just determined and willing to push myself."

OLYMPIC DREAMS AND HOMETOWN PRIDE

With ski mountaineering historically dominated by Europeans, Buluer's rise is a breakthrough for Asian athletes in the sport. He knows, however, that there's still work to be done.

"China is strong in Asia, but we have a gap to close with the top European teams," he said. "I want to gain more experience in World Cup events and help bring China to the top level."

Beyond his personal ambitions, Buluer hopes to see ski mountaineering grow in China. "Not many people in lower-altitude areas know about it," he said. "If more people take part, we'll see even greater talent emerge."

Despite competing internationally, his heart remains in Xinjiang's snow-covered mountains. After his three-gold medal performance at the Asian Championships last December, he returned home to a hero's welcome-his village even gifted him a horse and a car.

"I hope my hometown can host a world-class competition one day," he said. "Once people see the breathtaking scenery and incredible snow conditions, they'll recognize its potential as a global ski destination."

As for his own future, Buluer is preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics, while also improving his English skills to better connect with international audiences.

"I want to invite more people to visit my hometown," he said, his determination shining through. "It's only a matter of time before Altay becomes a world-class ski destination." Enditem

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