Xinhua News Agency, Xining, June 7 (Reporter Wu Guangyu) — On the 7th, participants of the 2012 Qinghai Gangshika Ski Mountaineering Exchange Conference ascended the 4,600-meter-high Gangshika Snow Mountain. Gliding down on their skis, their vibrant, colorful ski suits and graceful, dance-like movements against the backdrop of the snow-covered landscape created a beautiful scene.
At 9 a.m., the skiers, led by their coaches, divided into three groups and set off from the base camp at an altitude of 4,300 meters toward the ski area, carrying heavy ski gear. A section of gravel beach along the way posed the biggest challenge for the skiing enthusiasts.
Due to the heavy snowfall in the previous two days, gaps between the rocks were covered with snow, forcing the participants to tread carefully with every step. After more than an hour of loaded trekking, the team members gradually reached the snow line. After a brief rest, they put on their skis and headed toward the higher starting point. Another hour of tough hiking brought them finally to the 4,600-meter starting point.
For most participants, the over two-hour trek was undoubtedly a major test of their physical endurance. Li Fang, a ski mountaineering enthusiast, carried over 20 kilograms of gear during the climb. She said that overall the experience was fine, though the load was a bit heavy and she felt slightly tired, but taking short breaks along the way helped.
"Standing on the mountaintop, when you feel connected with the snow, the sky, and the mountains, there's this unique sense of returning to nature, as if you’ve become one with it. That feeling is absolutely wonderful — indescribable in words," said Han Yu, another ski mountaineering enthusiast.
Upon reaching the 4,600-meter ridge of Gangshika Snow Mountain, over 40 skiing enthusiasts leaned forward on their skis and zigzagged down the snowy slopes. Wherever they glided, the skis kicked up flakes of powdery snow. At that moment, the skiers had become the most graceful dancers performing atop Gangshika Snow Mountain.
During his descent, Han Yu attempted a relatively advanced move — the head brake — and took a few tumbles. "It was still pretty fun," he said. "Overall, I’d say it’s a mix of pain and joy."
On June 4, the 2012 Qinghai Gangshika National Ski Mountaineering Exchange Conference was held at Gangshika Snow Peak in Menyuan Hui Autonomous County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province. This event marks the second time since last June that the China Mountaineering Association has chosen Gangshika Snow Peak to host a ski mountaineering exchange activity focused on training in skills such as ski mountaineering and snow rescue. (End)