Parents provide safety net for extreme athletes

Growing concerns

Extreme sports provide participants with excitement and a sense of freedom, but many are injured or even killed every year. In May, a 22-year-old female wingsuit flying enthusiast died during a jump in the central province of Hunan.

Zhang Ning and his wife began to worry about their son's safety after noticing that he had been injured several times during training. They also knew that some of his friends had been seriously injured or killed when taking part in the sport.

"He has decided to take the parkour path. We cannot stop him and we choose to support him, believing that he can protect himself adequately, and bury our worries inside. We often tell him to be well-prepared before undertaking the moves to avoid injury," Zhang Ning said.

In July 2018, Zhang Yunpeng set a world record by jumping over four sports cars that were speeding toward him in a line at about 80 kilometers an hour, breaking the previous best of three cars held by an athlete from the United States.

Zhang Ning attended the event, but only after he had struggled for a long time to decide whether to view the performance on the spot. He didn't want to watch because of a potential accident, but he was determined to be there for his son in the event of injury.

"My wife and I went to the venue, but instead of trying to push our way through the crowd and stand at the front, we walked back and forth anxiously about 100 meters away. We waited until he had completed the challenge safely, and then left," he said.

He added that his son rarely tells him about injuries he has suffered, but he and his wife have taken their son to the hospital several times. The long waits depressed them and they never want to experience that again.

All Zhou's knowledge of BMX comes from sports channels she has watched with her son. She thinks the moves are risky, but understands that they excite spectators. She has repeatedly asked herself if she is right to support Liang because he has been injured so many times.

To save her from worrying, Liang rarely tells her about competitions he has entered and never invites her to training sessions. Zhou simply watches video clips after the competition has finished.

"Every time I know he will attend a competition or exhibition performance, I am very nervous, but I cannot call him before the competition because it would disturb his concentration. All I can do is stay home and pray he doesn't get hurt," she said.

"I expected him to quit BMX once he hit 30 and find another job. I know he will do all types of work well because he is diligent and devoted to whatever he does. Now, I have gradually shelved my concerns and accepted my son's work and lifestyle, just so long as he is able to live happily and safely."