PYEONGCHANG, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- China's Olympic speed skating champion Zhang Hong said on Wednesday that she now understands the Olympic spirit better in her second Olympic appearance.
Zhang claimed China's first ever Olympic speed skating title at the Sochi Games in 2014, winning the women's 1,000m.
"How many cycles of four years can an athlete have? I feel honored to be able to participate in my second Olympics," she said.
The skater said she she was fearless as a young athlete in Sochi, but since then, she has experienced a lot, not only victories, but also setbacks and injuries.
"Now I feel that I understand the Olympic spirit better, and I know better the significance of being an Olympian," she said.
Troubled with knee injuries, Zhang has not been in her best form in the World Cup series this season.
But she said her state was "under control," and she will strive to put on her best performance during the games.
"Speed skating is race against time, and on the ice, the victory belongs to those who can challenge themselves," she said.
Zhang made the remarks after the flag-raising ceremony of the Chinese delegation here on Wednesday morning.
After the ceremony, Chinese athletes and officials joined in a festive dance of South Korean performers to a music that combined the traditional Korean melody and hip-hop.
"Sports is not just competition, but also culture. I really enjoyed the moment," said Zhang.
