WUHAN, China — In a spectacular display of speed and skill, Tang Qianting of Shanghai and Hubei native Sun Jiajun shattered Asian records at China’s National Swimming Championships on Saturday.
The 20-year-old Tang, who secured silver in the women’s 100m breaststroke at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, continued her stellar performance by breaking her own Asian record in the semifinals of the women’s 50m breaststroke. She dominated the pool, touching the wall at an impressive 28.95 seconds.
"The result is as expected," Tang said confidently. "I can finish in a time of 29.3 seconds in the first half of the 100 meters, so it’s not difficult for me to get this result in the 50 meters. I hope I can continue to create records at the Shanghai stop and try to break the world record."
Sun Jiajun made waves in the men’s 50m breaststroke semifinals, finishing first in 25.72 seconds. His performance broke the Asian record previously held by compatriot Yan Zibei. The Paris Olympics men’s 4×100m medley relay gold medalist showcased his dominance, leaving competitors in his wake.
In the women’s 100m butterfly final, Wang Yichun of Shandong claimed victory with a time of 56.06 seconds. Close on her heels was 17-year-old Chen Lu from Fujian, the world youth record holder in the women’s 200m butterfly, who secured second place.
Hebei’s Yu Zidi captured gold in the women’s 400m individual medley, finishing in 4 minutes, 30.21 seconds. Her performance highlighted her versatility and endurance in one of swimming’s most challenging events.
The National Swimming Championships continue to be a platform for China’s elite swimmers to shine, setting the stage for future international competitions and inspiring fans around the world.
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Tang, Sun set Asian records at China's National Swimming Championships
cgtn.com
