Fourteen Winter Short Track Speed Skating Wins Three Golds
Sun Long’s goal is not just to win the Winter Games
The 14th National Winter Games kicked off with an exciting start as the short track speed skating open category produced three gold medals yesterday at the Inner Mongolia Ice Training Center in the Hailar Division. In the men’s and women’s 1500m competition, Jilin team’s Sun Long and Heilongjiang team’s Zang Yize emerged victorious, while the mixed 2000m relay saw the Shandong team claim the top spot.
Sun Long’s victory in the men’s individual event marks a significant milestone for the athlete, but it is not his only goal. As he soared to victory in the 1,500-meter final, Sun Long showcased a remarkable display of strength and determination. Despite staggering and almost falling after crossing the finish line, the 23-year-old athlete was focused on his ultimate objective – representing China in international competitions and achieving superior performance on the global stage.
Having closely followed the Short Track World Cup and its champions, Sun Long strategically adopted the “lead by one horse” tactic to evaluate his competitiveness at an international level. The grueling race left him severely exhausted, but his unwavering dedication and resilience were evident as he expressed his determination to prepare for the upcoming World Championships in March.
Similarly, Zang Yize’s victory in the women’s 1500-meter race demonstrated her steadfast commitment to excellence. The 24-year-old Heilongjiang team player emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear mind and executing precision in every moment, reflecting her aspirations for steady progress and peak performance in the years to come.
The mixed 2000-meter relay final saw thrilling competition marred by collisions, with the Heilongjiang team initially crossing the finish line first, only to be disqualified later. The subsequent victory of the Shandong team marked a historic achievement for the region in the National Winter Games, underscoring the significance of determination and skill in the world of short track speed skating.
As the 14th National Winter Games continue to unfold, the triumphs and spirit of resilience displayed by athletes like Sun Long and Zang Yize serve as a testament to the unwavering pursuit of excellence and the pursuit of representing China with pride on the global stage.