Gymnasts give it their all. They fly through the air and make it look incredibly easy, which is far from the truth. In a way, gymnasts are real-life superheroes.
As a result, gymnastics is one of the most watched events at multi-sport competitions around the world. The Chengdu FISU World University Games, are no exception.
The multi-purpose gymnasium at the Dong’an Lake Sports Park will see up to 15,000 spectators for gymnastics events, including for the men’s team final which usually sees lower attendance compared to women’s events.
The level of competition in both the men’s and women’s events is the best seen in the world this season. Olympic and world championship medallists have gathered in Sichuan Province to compete for medals.
The opening gold event took place on Wednesday and a star-studded line-up was ready to put on a show.
China gave a masterclass on home soil. Chengdu Sport University student Zou Jingyuan led the way. “We consider the FISU Games as a platform to prepare for future events,” said the new FISU champion, who was joined on the podium by teammates Shi Cong, Su Weide, Lan Xingyu, and Zhang Boheng.
For those watching in person, the competition and the atmosphere were intense. In the end, China claimed gold over a combative Japan by a slim margin of 2.032 points (262.594-260.562). Korea came in third place with 247.827.
For those watching in person, the competition and the atmosphere were intense. In the end, China claimed gold over a combative Japan by a slim margin of 2.032 points (262.594-260.562). Korea came in third place with 247.827.
“We can see that Japanese athletes are also in very good form,” Zou added. “We are honoured to have such a competition to compete with such outstanding athletes and learn from them.”
Hashimoto Daiki, a member of the Japanese team, is already looking ahead. “In a few months we will have a qualifying competition for Paris 2024. So, it’s a good opportunity to learn from them.”
In addition to Hashimoto, a two-time Olympic champion, the Japanese team consisted of Sugimoto Kaito, Kawakami Shohei, Kazuki Minami and another Olympic medallist, Kazuma Kaya .
The Republic of Korea (Ryu Sunghyun, Kan Hyun-Bae, Kim Jaeho, Seo Jungwon, Lee Junghyo) were stronger than the USA in the battle for third place.
“Honestly, super fun!” said Frederick Richard who was in high spirits. The 19-year-old American attends the University of Michigan. In his first year with the Wolverines, he won three gold and two silver medals at the NCAA Championships.
“I have never experienced this kind of energy in the States. It makes me want to do even better and get the crowd going,” added the US team member.
Spain finished in 10th place with another athlete competing under the five rings.
“It’s unbelievable!” was the first impression of Spaniard Nicolau Mir. He is also one of the Olympians competing at this year’s FISU Summer Games. “Chengdu offers one of the best venues and arenas. I was at the Olympic Games in Tokyo two years ago and this is exactly the same,” said the student from the University of the Balearic Islands.
Written by Miha Trošt, FISU Young Reporter
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