SPORTS

Salmagundy

Isa Kao Skis To Success

By Caroline Callahan ‘26 Staff Writer

Junior Isa Kao ‘26 continued to demonstrate her astounding athletic ability in February by competing in the 2025 Asian Winter Games for Alpine Skiing.

After an excellent qualifying effort during the Dubai Slalom FIS Race last November — skiing with the Hong Kong National Team — Kao’s attention turned toward the Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China.

There, she was the second youngest female athlete in her division, getting one step closer to qualifying the next Winter Olympic Games.

Kao described the event as overwhelming but thrilling, especially during the opening ceremonies.

“Before the sports competition, we marched around the village, and I saw the president of China and Mongolia,” she said.

Kao said her deep-rooted passion and motivation to succeed have propelled her as a skier.

“I became part of the Hong Kong National Team after I placed first in a competition in China during my fourth grade year, and it seemed like something that I could chase after,” she said.

Kao said that determination has been equally vital to natural ability along the way.

Kao emphasized that genuine commitment and a sense of adventure are the most important factors in achieving any athletic goal.

“Take the initial risk,” she said. “There is no point not crossing a threshold you are scared to cross. You don’t know what is possible until you try.”

With her enthusiasm and fearless attitude, Kao continues to inspire everyone around her, as she takes on the new challenges in the upcoming seasons.