Harbin, China, July 20, 2026: The chief instructor at the OCA-ISU Asian Short Track Speed Skating Youth Camp, Chun Jae-su, has stressed the importance of communication for the athletes and coaches.
The experienced international short track coach said communication would be the key to the success of the camp, which opened on Monday and will run to July 26.
“First of all, I want to say that we’re here to help you prepare for the competitions and improve your racing skills,” he told the 35 athletes and 12 coaches from 14 National Olympic Committees at the opening ceremony on Monday.
“How we do that will depend on each of you – your level, your needs and your goals. So, a lot of it is up to you, but also up to us as coaches. We will work together - and everything will be based on open communication.
“We are very happy to teach you and share what we know. That’s why communication is key – it’s the most important part of this whole process.”
Chun has served as head coach or coach of the national and Olympic teams of Korea, Canada, United States, Hungary and China.
Over six Olympic Winter Games, from Torino 2006 through the 2026 cycle, his athletes have won a total of 18 Olympic medals, including eight golds.
His coaching approach emphasizes fundamental technique, tactical refinement, race strategy and high‑performance training systems for both senior and junior athletes.
“Based on my experience, I’ve seen that in many countries - especially some southern, western and coastal countries - there is still a lot of room for improvement, even when they have good support systems. So don’t be satisfied with where you are now. Use this camp to learn as much as you can.”
He urged the coaches: “Please ask questions – lots of them. Ask about how to share knowledge, how to manage training and about the basic techniques. When you go back home, you should at least have a solid understanding of these fundamentals.
“And a special note to our athletes – keep pushing yourselves.”
