One Nation, One Team

Day 6: Homegrown talent doesn't grow everywhere

Feb 09, 2022

China is a big place, about the size of the United States but with four times the population. And while having the most people does not guarantee the most medals, you would think China’s vast human resources would at least be an advantage. But that’s not strictly the case. Though there are over 260 Chinese dialects, some are a lot more prevalent than others on the Team China.

China’s small northeast region, home to only about 5.5% of the population, has provided about 100 of 176 Chinese Olympians. That includes 9 out of 10 top medal hopefuls (the 10th is Eileen Gu).

Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning provinces (in red) are home to almost 60% of Team China.

By contrast, Team USA athletes hail from 31 states across the country:

California leads the way with 29, followed by Colorado and Minnesota with 23.

Long known as China’s Rust Belt, the northeast (called Dōngběi in Chinese) has seen a resurgence in recent years as the government heavily invests in winter sports. It is now home to the country’s top ski resorts, and the children of coal miners have become Olympians. It’s a turn-around story the whole country is rooting for, and a charming regional accent with a new sense of respect.

What You Missed Last Night

Not a lot going on last night, but check out the fast close-contact action in Women’s Snowboard Cross.

(Reminder: How to Watch)

What To Watch Today

Start the morning quick with Short Track Speed Skating and Luge, or enjoy your decaf over USA vs RUS in the opening round of Men’s CURLING!

Tomorrow night is led by Team USA’s superstars: Figure Skater Nathan Chen and Snowboarder Chloe Kim both go for Gold. Also be sure to check out the ~~suicidal~~ aptly-named sport of Skeleton, basically face first Luge.