China breaks world record in men's speed relay at World Climbing Series Guiyang

GUIYANG, Sept. 13 (Xinhua) -- China broke the world record in the men's speed relay at the World Climbing Series Guiyang here on Sunday, taking gold medals in both men's and women's competitions on the final day.

With the two relay titles, China finished the three-day event with three golds, three silvers and one bronze across the men's and women's speed individual, mixed relay, and men's and women's speed relay events.

In the men's speed relay, China's first team of Zhao Yicheng and Ling Yongzhi clocked 9.91, 9.75, 9.58 and 9.67 seconds across four rounds. They matched the previous world record of 9.75 seconds, set by Zhao and Long Jianguo, before breaking it with 9.58 seconds in the semifinal.

China's second team of Shi Zechuan and Li Xu also improved round by round, recording 10.77, 10.56 and 10.18 seconds in the first three rounds to reach the final. Facing their strong compatriots in the final, Shi and Li posted their best time of 9.87 seconds.

"Actually, I am still very happy," Zhao said after the race. He noted that he had not performed well in the individual speed event earlier, but on Sunday night, despite some pressure, he was more focused and relaxed. "Eventually, everything fell into place naturally."

In the women's speed relay, eight teams competed in the final round. China's second team of Qin Yumei and Wang Shengyan was eliminated by South Korea's first team in the first round due to a mistake.

China's first team, composed of Fan Jingyue and Guizhou native Zhang Shaoqin, clocked 13.94, 14.81 and 13.18 seconds in three rounds, defeating Japan's first team, South Korea's first team and Spain's first team in succession.

Although they won the title, their road to victory was far from smooth. In the semifinal, they made mistakes and fell behind, but fought back to reach the final and seal the championship.

"Trust your teammates, do your best, and climb every try well," Fan said of the key to victory. Zhang attributed the win to local fans who came to support her. "I am extremely happy to have won a precious relay gold medal as a local athlete in my hometown. Thank you, fellow villagers for your encouragement and support." Zhang said. Enditem