Chinese athlete Zhao Jie made history at the National Throwing Championships in Chengdu this week, launching a 78.22-meter hammer throw that demolished the 12-year-old Asian record. The 23-year-old Jiangsu native surpassed compatriot Wang Zheng's 2014 mark of 77.68 meters with her second attempt, cementing her status as a global contender ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Zhao, a 2024 Paris Olympic bronze medalist and 2025 Tokyo World Athletics Championships silver medalist, told reporters the achievement has "fueled my confidence to push boundaries." Her throw now ranks among the world's top performances this year.
Shandong's Zhang Jiale also impressed at the Sichuan Province event, securing second place with a personal-best 77.15-meter effort on her final attempt. Analysts suggest Zhao's record could signal a new era for Asian field events as athletes ramp up preparations for major international competitions.
