Qiaobo YE (CHN)

Speed skating changed the course of my life. It taught me to be generous and open-minded, and to express my gratitude to everyone who supported me. Years after I retired from competition, the medals and trophies I won dulled, sometimes even forgotten in a corner. However, the compliments and accolades I received continue to inspire young people in difficult situations who may feel discouraged, lost or on the verge of giving up. This ability to help the next generation has been an unexpected bonus – even more important and valuable than any medal.

There is no other international event in the world that brings together so many peace-loving people from so many different countries. During the Games, the whole world is bathed in this beautiful spirit of humanity in perfect harmony, made up of different cultures able to communicate and unite without any kind of segregation or hierarchy. People flee from the quagmire of war to shed their biases, prejudices and hypocrisy, with the result that the Olympic Games create one big family, brought alive by love, tenderness and happiness.

For me, the Olympic Games aren't just a series of sports competitions, they also serve a unique educational function. The Games are all about passion and challenges. It's a time when competitors show courage and confidence, giving their all and never giving up. The values of Olympism can be passed on to people from all walks of life. And, in essence, introducing these positive qualities to a wider public is vital for the development of society.

If I could go back in time, I'd seek a more scientific training method and I'd devote more time to reading, studying, having fun and all the activities I'd like to enjoy, rather than always having to train for more than eight hours a day in freezing temperatures of minus 40°C. Today, though, I think I'd still choose speed skating, because it has made my life richer and gifted me memories that I'll never forget.

Sport requires explosive strength, speed and a balance between tension and relaxation. Creating art requires a dynamic spirituality and an innate capacity to understand things. Both require perseverance, determination and endurance. When I was out on the ice, I was very energetic, determined and disciplined. I was eager to win. Conversely, my artistic work takes me to another dimension, one where I can understand the world, time and space. When I paint, I let my hand move spontaneously. 

The Olympic Games mean perpetually climbing enormous mountains. I used to lead a very fast-paced life, but now I allow myself to drop out this ever time-poor society to stop and appreciate the real beauty that surrounds me. Through my dedication, I hope to be able to bring a little warmth to disabled children and help inspire young people to take up sports; this will enable them to discover the joys of physical exercise and enjoy challenging themselves. This is how I add value in my new approach to life.