Peak preparations reach dizzy heights

Even with ski jumping still a niche discipline in China, stakeholders are confident that the hard work to build the highly technical facility will pay off beyond the Olympics.

"It was really a big challenge to build such a facility as the first of its kind in our country," said Ma Long, vice-general manager of Zhangjiakou Aoti Construction and Development Co Ltd.

"We had no clue at all on how construction could be done on such a steep mountain hill on high altitude and to adhere to strict international standards. We are so proud of our work and excited to see that we pulled it off."

Zhang Li, chief designer of the center and a professor of architecture with Tsinghua University, said the mountain-top lounge has set "Snow Ruyi" apart from other ski jumping facilities in the world.

"It will offer fans the chance to watch the action from an angle that has never before been seen in the history of the Olympics," said Zhang.

"The multi-functional space in the lounge will provide plenty of options for post-Olympic use of the venue, while the open ground of the landing area surrounded by spectator seats could be used for music concerts or even hosting some summer sports."