The 10th Nanshan Freeski Open went down on January 24–25, 2025, at Nanshan Resort, delivering two days of high-level action and serious next-gen energy. Guided by the Beijing Municipal Sports Competition and International Exchange Center and hosted by the Miyun District Sports Bureau, Culture and Tourism Bureau, and Sports Federation, the event confirmed its status as one of Asia’s key freeski gatherings.
Around 60 riders from eight countries: China, Russia, USA, France, Germany, Sweden, Japan and South Korea — dropped in, turning the slopestyle course into a global playground.
In the Pro division, Brian Peter Gardiner (USA) claimed the men’s title with a composed and technical performance, while Lisa Karoline Zimmermann (GER) took the win in the women’s field, showing style and consistency under pressure.
But the real spotlight? The Juniors.
South Korea’s Ha-joon Kim secured the boys’ victory ahead of China’s Wang Zhaokun and Chang Jialin. In the girls’ competition, Zhou Qirun stood on top of the podium, followed by Li Hao and Zhao Ziqi. Special mention goes to Fan Yulong, awarded Best Chinese Skier of the event.
Here’s the big news for the World Rookie Tour family:
The top three Junior riders earned wild card spots to the World Rookie Tour Finals, opening a direct pathway from China to the international stage. This is more than a prize. It’s a statement. China’s freeski scene is building real momentum, and these young athletes are ready to test themselves against the best rookies worldwide.
With riders coming from 16 Chinese provinces — from Beijing and Inner Mongolia to Taiwan and Guangxi — the Open showed how freestyle skiing is spreading fast across the country. The event also blended sport and culture, with international athletes visiting the Great Wall and discovering local heritage experiences in Miyun.
The pipeline is growing. The level is rising. The road to the WRT Finals just got even more global.
