BEIJING, March 14 (Xinhua) -- After 20 years, 69-year-old Qu Li has once again joined the referee team for the ISU World Short Track Speed Skating Championships, held in Beijing.
In an interview on Friday, Qu expressed his admiration for the event's organization and the global development of short track speed skating.
Beijing previously hosted the championships in 1993 and 2005. This year's edition, taking place from Friday to Sunday at the Capital Indoor Stadium, features 164 skaters from 36 countries and regions.
Qu served as a finish-line referee at the 2005 championships. Due to age restrictions, he returned as a national technical official (NTO) for the 2025 event. He also serves as director of the short track speed skating referee committee for the Chinese Skating Association.
"The 2005 World Championships, an important event before the 2006 Torino Winter Olympics, was also held at the Capital Indoor Stadium," Qu said. "It's a similar situation now, with the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympic Winter Games approaching."
The Capital Indoor Stadium, with a history spanning more than 50 years, hosted volleyball competitions at the 2008 Summer Olympics and short track and figure skating events at the 2022 Winter Olympics. The dual Olympic venue continues to play a key role in international competitions.
Qu highlighted advancements in ice-making technology in China, particularly since the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. "The introduction of carbon dioxide transcritical direct cooling ice technology has significantly improved ice quality," he said.
"About 20 years ago, ice-making vehicles were powered by diesel, then gasoline and liquefied gas, and now they run on pure electricity, making them healthier and more eco-friendly," Qu added. "The facilities, training areas, and broadcasting and relay centers are also world-class and well-prepared."
At the 2005 championships, China's rising star Wang Meng made headlines before going on to win the women's 500m gold at Torino 2006 and three titles at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.
"Along with the strong performances of Chinese skaters, more Chinese referees and technical officials have gained recognition on the international stage," Qu said. "Currently, three Chinese referees have reached the ISU chief referee level, and more young talents are following in their footsteps."
The ISU continues refining and clarifying competition rules, and Qu stressed the importance of referees staying composed during high-stakes races to ensure fairness.
However, he believes rule knowledge should extend beyond referees. "I'm glad to see more athletes, coaches, and skating enthusiasts learning the rule changes and helping showcase the best of the sport to audiences," he said.
Reflecting on his career, Qu admitted that the rapid growth of short track speed skating in China, particularly among young people, exceeded his expectations. "Twenty years ago, I never imagined this level of development," he said. "Now, not only in northern China but also in the south, more ice rinks are available for the public to enjoy winter sports."
"Looking ahead, the future of China's short track speed skating is even more promising," Qu said. ■
