A real games changer

"I realized my dreams here, and the moment I heard the national anthem on the podium, I was so excited," said the 20-year-old Zhang, who also won gold in the women's giant slalom standing on Friday.

"Winning the first gold medal is the most memorable moment of my Alpine skiing career to date. I will remember it forever. It was really hard when I first started my training, I did not even know how to stop on the snow at the beginning.

"But para Alpine skiing has made me more confident, and also improved my physical condition. This sport has helped me to overcome all difficulties."

Beijing 2022 Organizing Committee (BOCOG) vice-president Yang Shu'an said the rapid improvements made by Team China's para athletes were primarily due to increased participation levels.

"At past Winter Paralympic Games, China participated in very few events, but this year Chinese athletes entered all disciplines," said Yang on Tuesday.

"The biggest reason behind this is the continuous efforts of athletes with disabilities and their strong desire to fully participate in society. At the same time, the Chinese government has always supported the inclusion of people with disabilities in society. Programs for persons with disabilities have benefited from comprehensive development, including para sports.

"With China's economic and social development, there has been increasing care and support for para sports. People with disabilities have always been striving to improve themselves, so it's a combination of factors."