In a remarkable display of swimming prowess, China’s university swimming team capped off a triumphant seven-day campaign at the FISU Games, clinching a staggering 18 gold and two bronze medals. This outstanding performance secured their position at the pinnacle of the swimming leaderboard.
A standout among the athletes, butterfly specialist Zhang Yufei, stood as the driving force behind China’s extraordinary medal collection. Zhang’s exceptional skill and determination propelled her to clinch gold medals across all nine events she participated in. The Dong’an Lake Sports Park Aquatics Centre bore witness to her continued excellence on Monday night as she secured two more gold medals, triumphing in the women’s 50 meters freestyle and the 4×100 meters medley relay.
Zhang’s journey was marked by a demanding schedule, competing consecutively in both the FISU University Games and the World Aquatics Championships. Overcoming fatigue and pushing herself to new limits, she emphasized the disciplined mindset required for success.
“The University Games competition is more like training for me. Even though I’m tired, I have to wake up when I step into the arena. Regardless of my mental state, once I’m on the competition stage, I have to give my all and take the race seriously,” Zhang explained to reporters.
Zhang’s dedication was further illustrated when she shared her medals with the audience during the award ceremony, embodying the spirit of appreciation and camaraderie.
Li Bingjie, a 21-year-old distance freestyle specialist representing Shanghai Jiao Tong University, displayed her own remarkable achievements. After securing victory in the 400 meters freestyle, Li’s unyielding determination led her to compete back-to-back, culminating in a resounding victory for China in the women’s relay. Overcoming physical challenges, she clinched a total of eight gold medals at the FISU Games, including an impressive sweep in the women’s 400, 800, and 1,500 meters freestyle events.
Li expressed her aspirations to narrow the gap between herself and world-renowned swimmer Katie Ledecky of the US, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining her own rhythm and focus.
Among the male athletes, the Chinese university men’s 4×100 meters medley relay team, led by breaststroke world champion Qin Haiyang, set a new FISU record with a time of 3:32.58 seconds. Qin Haiyang, whose name translates to “ocean,” shared his profound connection to swimming and the significance of mental relaxation in managing the rigorous demands of the sport.
As the FISU Games unfolded, the resounding cheers of the home audience echoed through the arena, providing unwavering support to the Chinese swimming team. Qin Haiyang expressed his gratitude for the fervent encouragement, emphasizing the unique and invigorating atmosphere created by the home crowd.
In the wake of this impressive performance, China’s university swimming team has solidified their reputation as a dominant force in the world of swimming, setting their sights on future competitions and Olympic success.