June 2023
K-sports
Q. Can you introduce yourself?
I¡¯m Hyunju Cho, and I¡¯m thrilled to be a part of the national team representing the ¡°Park¡± event at the upcoming 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games.
Q. Are there different events in skateboarding?
Absolutely! Skateboarding consists of two main events: park and street. In the park event, athletes demonstrate impressive aerial maneuvers while riding a curved huge structure known as a bowl. It¡¯s akin to the halfpipe used in snowboarding. On the other hand, street skateboarding showcases technical prowess as participants navigate urban elements like handrails and stairs. Both events emphasize the difficulty and execution of tricks, with the park event also considering speed as an important factor in scoring.
Q. How did you get into skateboarding?
It all began when I watched a TV program featuring a young prodigy riding a skateboard. It looked incredibly fun, so I persuaded my parents to buy me a skateboard. Once I started riding, I quickly realized that it was even more enjoyable and fulfilling than I had imagined. My passion for skateboarding grew stronger, leading me to participate in my first Korean skateboard national team competition at the age of 12. That marked the beginning of my journey as a national team player.
Q. In 2018, you were chosen as a member of the national skateboard team at the remarkable age of 12. I can only imagine the excitement and nervousness you experienced. How do you feel now, after four years?
As each year passes, I sense significant growth both in my technical abilities and personal development. When I was initially selected for the national team at the age of 12, I was filled with pure joy and excitement. However, as time went on, I began to comprehend the weight and responsibility that comes with representing my country. With that in mind, I am dedicated to continuous learning, diligently studying and practicing to achieve commendable results as a representative of the national team.
Q. What are your strengths that enabled you to secure a spot on the national team?
One of my strengths is my ability to adapt and perform well in the moment. During a recent competition in Dubai, I found myself taking a different approach than initially planned. However, through quick thinking and utilizing my skills, I successfully regained my original position. In terms of technical proficiency, I excel in maintaining stability and executing high aerial maneuvers. Currently, I¡¯m pushing myself further by practicing air spin techniques, with the aim of showcasing these skills at the upcoming World Skateboarding Tour Rome 2023.
Cho practices a skateboard kick technique.Q. With the Asian Games quickly approaching, what aspects are you currently prioritizing?
As the Asian Games draw near, my main focus lies in preparing for the unique conditions of the international stadium, which features a concrete surface. Since Korea currently lacks a concrete stadium, my top goal is to find the best way to familiarize myself. Additionally, I recognize the importance of conditioning my body and ensuring I¡¯m at my best on the day of the competition, allowing me to showcase my skills to the fullest.
Q. Skateboarding involves high-level aerial techniques and carries a risk of injury. However, fear can hinder one¡¯s performance. How do you overcome fear and maintain composure?
I find that simplifying my thoughts and breaking down the process can be incredibly helpful. When attempting a challenging trick for the first time, the pressure to execute it perfectly right away can be overwhelming and lead to fear. To address this, I employ a method that involves practicing the skill in incremental stages. For instance, I start by focusing on the jumping aspect, then progress to connecting the jump with the turn, and finally work on sticking the landing. By repeating this step-by-step approach, the technique gradually becomes more natural and familiar to me. This allows me to overcome fear and maintain a calm mindset while progressing in my skateboarding journey.
Q. What do you believe makes skateboarding appealing?
In my opinion, the true charm of skateboarding emerges when you experience it firsthand. There¡¯s an incredible sense of accomplishment when you successfully execute a trick or maneuver. One of the remarkable aspects of skateboarding is that it can be accessible to beginners. Unlike many other sports, skateboarding doesn¡¯t require an extensive array of equipment.
Q. I heard that skateboarding will be broadcasted during the Asian Games. Any tips for enjoying the skateboarding competition?
Skateboarding events at the Asian Games will be televised and streamed online. When watching, pay close attention to the unique skills, techniques and movements of each individual skater. It can be a delightful experience to identify players who exhibit captivating styles while witnessing their remarkable performances.
Q. Given your exceptional skills at a young age, there is great anticipation for your future in skateboarding. What kind of player do you aspire to become?
My immediate goal is to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics. With skateboarding now recognized as an official event following its inclusion in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, I aim to prepare meticulously and strive to become the first Korean skateboarder to earn a medal. Looking ahead, I want to continuously grow as an athlete, pushing the boundaries of my abilities and soaring higher.
Cho expresses her ambition for the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games.
View of all
