Chinese and Swiss skiers were on top during qualification in China ©FIS

Teenage rising star Zhang Kexin and Joel Gisler of Switzerland led their respective qualification events at the International Ski Federation Freestyle Halfpipe World Cup in China today.

Zhang Kexin delighted the home crowd by leading the way in the women's competition at the Secret Garden Resort close to Beijing.

The 15-year-old, competing in her first season on the World Cup circuit, wowed with score of 88.00 points.

It proved enough to comfortable beat Japanese rival Yurie Watabe, who was second with 83.60.

Valeriya Demidova of Russia was third with 80.20.

Zhang Kexin starred on home snow in the Chinese resort ©Getty Images
Zhang Kexin starred on home snow in the Chinese resort ©Getty Images

European skiers were more successful in the corresponding men's event. 

Joel Gisler led a Swiss 1-2 with a score of 87.80

Team-mate Rafael Kreienbuehl finished second, with 84.20, as Thomas Krief of France progressed in third with 80.80.

Both finals are scheduled for Friday (December 22).

Snowboard halfpipe finals are also due to take place tomorrow at the Chinese resort.