Chloe Kim

Another Asian athlete who has gained international attention is snowboarder Chloe Kim. In 2014, at just 14 years old, she qualified for the Olympics. However, IOC rules required athletes to be at least 15, so she had to wait four more years. This delay set the stage for her remarkable Olympic debut in her parents’ native country of South Korea.

Chloe’s father played a crucial role in her success. He quit his job and turned the family car into a mobile resting spot, outfitting it with blankets so Chloe could sleep during long drives to practice. Using his physics background, he helped her refine her moves by calculating the precise angles and speeds needed for each trick. Chloe’s dedication and hard work paid off when she captured an Olympic gold medal.

Beyond her athletic achievements, Chloe feels a strong responsibility to represent Asian Americans in all that she does. “Every time I’m stepping outside, I have to make sure I’m putting my best foot forward,” she explains.