China’s Lin Xinyu and Huang Anqi claimed gold and silver respectively in the women’s individual on Sunday to break a Japan Asian Games winning streak in triathlon that stretched back to Guangzhou 2010.
Lin won in 57:37 at Gamagori City Triathlon Venue, after a typically dominant swim set things up before then clocking the quickest 5km run time of 16:36 to take the tape. Compatriot Huang crossed the line 21s behind her, Hayashi Manami (JPN) took bronze in 58:36.
Gold also secured China a place at LA28, should they not achieve it via the qualification rankings system. The quota spot is awarded to the National Olympic Committee who then nominate the specific athlete(s) in the lead in to the Games.
Lin credited teammate Huang for bringing the best out of her, admitting either could have won the gold.
“We were both aiming for the gold medal before the race. Even if I hadn’t won it, I believed Anqi could have done so,” Lin said. "So we’re both very grateful to each other; having the other there meant we could push each other right to the finish.
“It went fairly smoothly for me. I broke away on my own during both the swim and the bike. I wasn’t thinking about anything in particular, nor was I worrying about what was happening behind me."
“But on the second lap, I was caught up on the bike. At that point, I adjusted my strategy a little. Then, during the run, I drew on my training to perform to the best of my ability and go on to win this gold medal. It is a great honor for me. Winning a medal at the Asian Games is very significant for Chinese triathlon."
Huang Anqi added; "I’m very satisfied with the overall result. Everything went smoothly without any problems, and I think we were able to finish the race successfully.”
“I’m where I am today because of the steady progress I’ve made over time. Receiving so much support right here at home – and being able to compete in this race – was my goal. It was truly moving. It gave me goosebumps," said Hayashi after taking bronze for Japan.
“The Asian Games being held here in my hometown was one of the reasons I started triathlon, so first of all, I’m really happy that I was able to compete in this event. With so much support from the local crowd, I’m disappointed to have finished third, but I’m glad that I was at least able to achieve my minimum goal of winning a medal."
