Eighteen-year-old Chinese swimmer Sun Yang claimed the bronze medal in the men's 1,500 meters freestyle at the World Swimming Championship in Rome on Sunday. The nine-day event produced a historic showing for Chinese athletes. China collected four gold, two silver and four bronze medals, the best result in 15 years.
China's Zhang Lin rewrote the history books on July 30th. He broke the world record in the Men's 800m Freestyle Final, becoming China's first male swimmer to win the title in a major world tournament.
Zhang Lin, winner of the 800m freestyle, said, "I can't speak... I can't describe my feelings in words.... I'm so excited..I have no idea how to thank my coach."
More outstanding results followed the next day. Zhao Jing took gold in the 50m back stroke, while four swimmers took gold in the 200m women's freestyle relay.
On August 2nd, China won the gold medal in the women's 4x100m medley relay with a world record finish.
Li Zhesi, "I did my best. I just thought of "holding on" when I swam."
Zhao Jing, champion, said, "All four of us performed well. Each one's result was at least one second faster than her best."
Chen Huijia said, "I did all that I can. I did try my best."
Jiao Liuyang said, "I think we all did well, especially the breaststroke and backstroke swimmers."
The four swimmers are all in their teens, so in addition to their medals, they have also brought new hope for China's swimming team in the future.
(CCTV August 4, 2009)
