In his childhood, Shan Zhaojian, now 83, spent most of his winters on the snow, wearing various objects on his feet, from broken iron basins to snowshoes made of straw.

When he moved up to cross-country skis, he became a national champion, winning three gold medals in China's first National Ski Games in Tonghua, Jilin province, in 1957 — in the 5-kilometer cross-country event, 10-km cross-country and ski relay.

In the seven decades since, Shan has maintained his enthusiasm for ice and snow sports.

"Even after half a century I vividly remember the moment I stood on that podium," he said. "I was proud of the achievement after years of hard work."