Korean halfpipe snowboarders vow to win medal at Pyeongchang Olympics

Kim Ho-joon (25), and Lee Gwang-gi (22), members of the Korean national halfpipe snowboarding team, have not participated in competitions in this season in order to focus on strengthening their basic skills.

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Kim Ho-joon took part in Olympics Games in 2010 for the first time in his career as a Korean snowboarder. Lee Gwang-ki was the first Korean athlete to advance to the final at the world championship in January this year. The two snowboarders who returned home on Wednesday after completing an overseas training session in the U.S. seem to be full of confidence. Kim said, As I worked hard to improve my basic skills, I have advanced my technique as well. Lee said, We could not participate in the competitions, but it was great because we had ample time to practice.

Coach Kim Soo-cheol said, We analyzed how we can narrow their gaps in capability with world-class athletes. I had them practice high jumps and remove small motions. The two athletes elevated their jumps further by 60 cm to 80 cm. As they stayed in the air for a longer time, they improved technique as well. They also corrected their postures. Coach Kim said, If they can only master techniques that they currently use, they will be able to win a medal at the World Cup.

Both athletes have been serving as members of the national team together for about eight years. They have snowboarded together for over 10 years as well. Lee said, I have never considered elder brother Ho-joon a rival. We both benefit from each other. I wish that Ho-joon achieves more than me. Kim said, We are like a family more than a real family. We are like biological brothers.

The duo will leave again for the U.S. where the World Cup will take place early next month. Kim said, I now have confidence that I can win a medal at the World Cup. Gwang-ki and I will achieve good outcome, and will ensure that skiing and snowboarding sports at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics will not prove to be merely a festival for other countries, The two players were heading to the training site again on Thursday, saying We should not lose our athletic sense in the sport (Kim Ho-joon), and I will take rest while snowboarding (Lee Gwang-ki),