BEIJING—At the age of 35, China’s veteran shot putter Gong Lijiao is preparing to make her fifth appearance at the Summer Olympics in Paris, a feat that mirrors the five rings of the Olympic emblem and symbolizes her enduring pursuit of excellence.
Gong, one of the world’s most decorated track and field athletes, has amassed an impressive collection of accolades over her two-decade-long career. She clinched her first Olympic gold medal at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021 with a personal best throw of 20.58 meters. This triumph followed her previous Olympic performances, where she secured bronze in Beijing (2008), silver in London (2012), and finished fourth in Rio de Janeiro (2016).
Despite reaching the pinnacle of Olympic success, Gong remains unwavering in her ambition. “When I threw 20.53 meters, I knew that I would win the title,” Gong told China Media Group (CMG). “After that, I felt such a relief and aimed for 21 meters.”
Under the guidance of her coach Dieter Kollark from Germany, who rejoined her team ahead of the winter training session, Gong has been intensifying her preparations. Although initially connecting virtually, Kollark provided detailed daily training plans. From June onwards, Gong increased her training workload, focusing on enhancing her technique, flexibility, and strength.
This season, Gong’s top performance has been a throw of 19.72 meters, ranking her seventh globally and placing her behind her compatriot Song Jiayuan. The leading five athletes in the women’s shot put have all surpassed the 20-meter mark. In pursuit of excellence, Gong traveled to Germany this month to train directly with Kollark and to participate in a series of competitions as part of her Olympic preparations.
“I’m at a different age, but I still have the same goal, which is, as always, to win the title and to surpass my best record,” Gong affirmed.
Gong’s relentless dedication serves as an inspiration to athletes worldwide. As she sets her sights on Paris, fans and sports enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing her strive for new heights and perhaps another gold to add to her illustrious career.
Reference(s):
Five Olympic Games, five Olympic Rings mark Gong Lijiao's dream
cgtn.com
