At the age of 30, Chinese discus thrower Feng Bin is gearing up for her ultimate goal: competing for the women’s discus throw gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris.
Feng made her Olympic debut in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, finishing within the top ranks. However, the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 saw a setback when she failed to make the final round. Undeterred by this disappointment, Feng’s confidence remained unshaken, bolstered by her outstanding performances in 2022 and 2023.
In July 2022, at the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, Feng achieved a personal best of 69.12 meters. This impressive throw secured her the gold medal, surpassing renowned competitors Sandra Perkovic of Croatia and Valarie Allman of the United States. Her victory marked the end of an 11-year title drought for Chinese athletes in the women’s discus throw at the World Championships.
“I felt such relief at that moment because I proved I could do it,” Feng told China Media Group (CMG). “Many didn’t think I could win before the final, but I won it in the end. I proved myself.”
One year later, in August 2023, Feng continued to demonstrate her prowess at the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary. She threw 68.2 meters in her final attempt, earning the bronze medal. This throw was the second-best performance of her career and secured her qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games.
Maintaining superb form, Feng has consistently thrown over 67 meters in six competitions this season. She currently ranks third in the world, behind Yaime Perez of Cuba and Valarie Allman of the United States.
For Feng, discus throwing is more than a display of power; it is akin to performing a ballet. She has been diligently working on improving her flexibility and coordination, qualities that she believes make her movements as graceful as those of short-distance hurdlers.
“I’m in good form now,” Feng said. “I just focus on training and improving my performance. As long as I can maintain regular practice, I won’t perform badly in Paris. My goal this year is definitely to win the gold at the 2024 Olympics.”
As the Paris Olympics approach, Feng Bin stands as a symbol of determination and excellence in athletics, embodying the spirit of perseverance that inspires audiences around the world.
Reference(s):
Chinese discus thrower Feng Bin to 'dance' again at 2024 Olympic Games
cgtn.com
