Bai Hejiang instructs a young student in pushing weighted bricks training on May 5. [Photo by Li Dongyu/ For chinadaily.com.cn]
In a rural courtyard at Goutou village, Baoding, North China's Hebei province, 69-year-old Bai Hejiang, known as "Wrestling Grandpa," has spent 12 years teaching Chinese-style wrestling to over 1,000 local children for free.
His humble training ground—a dirt field and a tin-roofed shelter—has become a cradle for young champions.
As a former professional wrestler, Bai retired to run a business but never gave up his passion for the traditional sport.
After his children grew up, he invested his savings to transform an abandoned factory into a wrestling club, offering free classes to kids with an interest in the sport.
Lacking funds, Bai uses homemade equipment, such as old tires, for training.
He also provides personal care, covering injuries, buying snacks, and even paying competition fees.
His dedication has borne fruit, as three national master athletes, eight first-grade athletes, and seven second-grade athletes have emerged from his club, collectively winning over 200 medals, according to a report by Hebei Daily.
"Chinese wrestling is our heritage. I want more kids to love it," said Bai, who refuses to charge fees despite rising demand. "It's not just about winning. It's about learning to stand up after a fall."
Through sweat and perseverance, Bai continues to plant seeds of courage and resilience in the next generation.
Trainee Guo Yuhang (right) practices wrestling twists under Bai Hejiang's guidance on May 4. [Photo by Li Dongyu/ For chinadaily.com.cn]
Bai Hejiang displays trophies won by his students on May 8. [Photo by Li Dongyu/ For chinadaily.com.cn]
Students spar at the wrestling club of Bai Hejiang on May 5. [Photo by Li Dongyu/ For chinadaily.com.cn]
Children do homework at the wrestling club on May 7. [Photo by Li Dongyu/ For chinadaily.com.cn]
Trainee Yang Haoxuan uses an old tire for strength drills on May 10. [Photo by Li Dongyu/ For chinadaily.com.cn]
Students practice wrestling techniques during a training session on May 4. [Photo by Li Dongyu/ For chinadaily.com.cn]
