Li Silin (left) and Wen Xinyue compete in the mixed double curling final during the 14th National Winter Games on Jan 12. [Photo/Shanxi Daily] 

Shanxi province's delegation to the 14th National Winter Games won its first gold medal on Jan 12 in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia autonomous region. 

That day, Li Silin and Wen Xinyue, jointly trained by Shanxi and Heilongjiang provinces, clinched the championship during the mixed double curling final. 

The 14th National Winter Games is hosted by the General Administration of Sport of China and organized by the People's Government of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. 

The event aligns with international standards and is a precursor to the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics. It features a comprehensive program comprising eight major events, 16 sub-events, and 176 minor events and is the largest and most extensive edition of the National Winter Games to date. 

According to the official schedule, events such as curling, speed skating, ski jumping, and Nordic combined have commenced since Jan 9. Before the opening ceremony on Feb 17, 77 gold medals will have been awarded. The games will last until Feb 27.