China’s short track speed skating team delivered an outstanding performance at the back-to-back ISU World Cup events in Seoul, South Korea, culminating in a thrilling win in the men’s 5,000m relay and a total haul of two gold and two bronze medals.
The men’s relay team, comprising Liu Shaoang, Ren Ziwei, Sun Long, and Li Wenlong (who stepped in for Liu Shaolin), showcased exceptional teamwork and strategy. They completed the 45-lap race in 7:05.762, outpacing skating powerhouses the Netherlands and Belgium. This victory marked their second win in the World Cup series after four races, a significant rebound from an error in the previous event in Beijing.
Sun Long, the leading finisher in the relay, emphasized the team’s focus on unity and collective effort, valuing team events higher than individual achievements. The win in Seoul was a testament to their tactical understanding and error-free execution, particularly on the challenging ice conditions.
This victory comes in the wake of online criticism the team faced following the Beijing event. Fans had targeted individual athletes and head coach Zhang Jing for the team’s performance. However, the latest win demonstrates the team’s resilience and focus amid external pressures.
Veteran skater Ren Ziwei, a two-time Olympian, reflected on his performance and expressed his determination to further improve. He plans to use the next two months for intensive training, eyeing potential surprises at the upcoming National Winter Games in Hulun Buir, Inner Mongolia, scheduled for February 2024.
In individual events, Liu Shaoang defended his 500 meters title with a remarkable last-second surge, edging out South Korea’s Seo Yi-ra by a mere 0.09 seconds. Liu’s victory is a clear indicator of his skill and competitive spirit, which he celebrated as a shared achievement with his team.
On the women’s side, the relay team comprising Qu Chunyu, Zang Yize, Gong Li, and Wang Xinran secured a bronze medal. Additionally, the young talent Wang Ye, at just 18 years old, added another bronze to the team’s tally in the women’s 500 meters.
The team’s return to Beijing is eagerly anticipated, as short track has grown to become China’s most popular winter sport. The squad’s mix of Olympic champions like the Liu brothers and Lin Xiaojun, along with experienced athletes like Ren Ziwei and Fan Kexin, has captured the nation’s attention and admiration.
Looking ahead, the World Cup series will continue in Dresden, Germany, in February 2024. The Chinese short track team’s recent performance in Seoul sets a high bar for their upcoming competitions, with fans and athletes alike optimistic about their prospects on the international stage.
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