Ning Zhongyan, the celebrated Chinese speed skater born on November 3, 1999, in Mudanjiang, China, has often credited his parents for their unwavering support throughout his career.
While they maintain a private life, available details highlight their dedication and the role they played in nurturing his talent from a young age.
Ning Zhongyan’s father, Ning Baorui (宁宝瑞), is known for his straightforward and candid personality.
A farmer by profession, he has often shared glimpses of family life in interviews.
Ning Baorui prepares his son’s favorite home-cooked meal, “iron pot stewed big goose,” whenever Ning Zhongyan returns from competitions.
Despite their modest background, both parents wholeheartedly encouraged their son to pursue speed skating, recognizing his potential and supporting him through the challenges of elite sports.
Ning Zhongyan’s mother, Zhao Shuyan (赵淑艳), discovered his talent early in his life.
At age 11, while he attended Heping Elementary School in Ning’an, his first coach, Zhu Yuliang (祝玉良), noticed that Ning could skate naturally, right from his first step on the ice.
Zhao Shuyan has expressed immense pride in her son’s achievements, often revealing the emotional toll of watching him compete.
During the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, she wore a red scarf for good luck, symbolizing “good fortune and prosperity,” and cheered passionately from the stands.
Both parents have actively supported Ning Zhongyan throughout his career.
They have traveled long distances to attend events, arriving early to watch him train or compete, offering encouragement from the stands while allowing him space to focus.
After his victory in the men’s 1500m at the 2025 Asian Winter Games, both were moved to tears.
Ning Zhongyan has publicly acknowledged their influence, noting that their presence inspires him to excel, such as when he broke the Asian record in the men’s 1500m.
Following his gold medal win and Olympic record at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, officials from the Heilongjiang Provincial Sports Bureau visited their home in Heping Village, Shiyan Town, Ning’an City, to offer congratulations.
Zhao Shuyan recounted that she “didn’t sleep all night” from excitement, and the family shared tears of joy while watching the live broadcast together.
In interviews, the parents have also spoken candidly about the difficulties of his training.
Zhao Shuyan admitted, “I’ve seen how bitter the training is for the child,” expressing hope for his continued improvement while respecting his focus during competitions.
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