Sui Wenjing and Han Cong. Photo: Xinhua

Highlighted by traditional Chinese-style outfits and music, two teams of Chinese pair skaters, Sui Wenjing and Han Cong, and Peng Cheng and Jin Yang made their debut at the Capital Gymnasium for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games on Monday evening, also the eve of Chinese New Year.

Sui was particularly eye-catching with her Chinese double bun hairstyle, and her black backless skirt, which looks like a traditional Chinese cheongsam as it is designed with yellow frog buttons on the front, according to a report by Xinhua News Agency on Tuesday.

Although not showing up with their newest outfits, Jin of the other pair said their clothes will also feature Chinese elements. 

"In my new competition clothing, there will be a pattern designed in Suzhou embroidery, which is a technique of China's national intangible cultural heritage. It will be hand-sewn stitch by stitch, and very delicate," Jin was quoted by Xinhua as saying.

Aside from the outfits featuring culture icons, many Chinese figure skaters also chose Chinese music for their programs as the 2022 Games will be held at home. 

Peng Cheng and Jin Yang. File photo: CFP

The Peng Cheng and Jin Yang pair will use the music from movie The Banquet by Chinese director Feng Xiaogang for their free figure skating program. Male single skater Jin Boyang selected music from famous director Ang Lee's movie, the popular Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, for his short program, Xinhua said.

The two pairs mainly practiced short programs of figure skating, including throws, twist, and individual jumps, for the Beijing 2022 on the evening of Chinese New Year's Eve, and the success rates were very high, said Xinhua.

"I haven't seen such a big stage for a long time that I am still a little excited," said Peng. "Today is New Year's Eve, and I feel so grateful to see so many people give up their holidays and be here with us for the Winter Olympics."

It is still not yet known which of the two pairs will participate in the team event of the Beijing 2022 Olympic Games, Xinhua said. 

Global Times