TV series on winter sports gains ahead of 2022 Olympics

The drama tells the story of a romantic relationship between ice hockey player Li and Tang Xue (played by Wu), who dreams of becoming a short-track speed skater, and how they support each other in athletics.

"As a girl who loves sports, I really like the background of this series," a Douban user comments, "and the pursuit of their dreams."

Series director Chu Yui-pan says the audience can relate to the perseverance of the young characters in overcoming obstacles and the bittersweet love between them.

"Such elements were considered when shaping the characters," he adds.

The show's cast and crew had to ensure that the sets for winter sports looked professional. They built a rink to shoot scenes of ice hockey, speed skating and figure skating. China's Olympic medalist Wu Dajing was consulted and many other athletes and coaches were invited to work on set.

Wu Dajing says the cast and crew tried their best to create a professional environment. "They worked really hard to understand the sport (speed skating)."

The actors and actresses also underwent training for one month and a half, tutored by professional athletes.

"They had to meet basic standards, including doing some movements by themselves and avoiding silly mistakes," says Chu.

Since it was difficult for regular crew members to balance on ice while shooting with real athletes for the show's competition scenes, former short-track speed skater Li Zongrui was taught some filming so as to capture high-speed movements.