Long Qingquan betters Mutlu’s world record at Chinese National Games
Olympic champion Long Qingquan made his impressive debut at the 11th Chinese National Games as he towered weightlifting legend Mutlu’s jerk world record in men’s 56kg category Friday.
Long of Hunan hoisted 169kg in his final attempt to smash the jerk world record by one kilo, which was made by Turkish Olympic champion Halil Mutlu.
“Surpassing Mutlu is my dream. I hope one day I can break all the three world records set by him,” Long told the press.
“I felt great before the competition. Bettering the world record is my plan,” he added.
Although other young lifters tried to challenge Long, the 19-year-old Olympic champion showed no tension during the competition. He lifted a total of 302kg to win the gold, ten kilos more than his Olympic result.
“I need a rest and then start to prepare for the London Olympics,” said Long, who had not decided whether to compete in the world championships in November.
However, Long’s performance will not be written into the world records because the sport governing body, the International Weightlifting Federation, only recognizes records set in world, continental and Olympic competitions.
by Xinhua