Early Life and Education of Eileen Gu: A Complete Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Eileen Gu. A timeline of key moments.

Eileen Feng Gu, or Gu Ailing, is a freestyle skier who represents China in international competitions. Born in the United States, she switched allegiances in 2019 and has since competed for China in halfpipe, slopestyle, and big air events. Gu is a prominent figure in the world of freestyle skiing.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

2002: Death of Gu Ling

In 2002, a year before Eileen Gu was born, Gu Yan's sister Gu Ling died in a car crash. Gu's mother decided to name her "Ailing" in her sister's honor.

September 3, 2003: Eileen Gu's Birth

On September 3, 2003, Eileen Feng Gu, also known as Gu Ailing, was born. She is a freestyle skier who competes for China.

Others born on this day/year

2018: Brad Prosser became technical coach guide

In 2018, Brad Prosser became the technical coach guide to the Chinese national team for the 2022 Winter Olympics after meeting Eileen Gu when she was ten.

June 2019: Change of Nation to China

In June 2019, Eileen Gu began competing for China after requesting a change of nation with the International Ski Federation. Her goal was to compete for China in the 2022 Winter Olympics.

December 2020: Early admittance to Stanford University

In December 2020, Eileen Gu earned early admittance to Stanford University, her mother's alma mater.

2020: Chinese Ministry of Justice Broadened Rules

In 2020, the Chinese Ministry of Justice broadened rules for foreigners, allowing people that achieved international recognition in sport, science, culture and other fields to obtain permanent residency.

2021: Spoke out against anti-Asian racism

During the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, after the 2021 Atlanta spa shootings and the killing of Vicha Ratanapakdee, Eileen Gu spoke out against anti-Asian racism.

2021: Described identity when in the US and China

In a 2021 interview with ESPN, Eileen Gu stated that when she is in the U.S., she considers herself American, and when she is in China, she identifies as Chinese.

May 2022: Mentioned Conversion to Buddhism

In May 2022, Eileen Gu mentioned that she had converted to Buddhism.

May 2022: Referred to herself as an Asian American

In May 2022, Eileen Gu referred to herself as an Asian American.

2022: Entered Stanford and Debutante Ball

In 2022, Eileen Gu entered the freshman class at Stanford University. In the same year, she was presented as a debutante at Le Bal des débutantes in Paris.