Lingling Sets New World Record as China Shines in Paralympic Powerlifting

China's women powerlifters dominated the opening day of the Paris Paralympics, with Guo Lingling setting a new world record in the up to 45kg category. The 35-year-old raised the bar, taking her bench press record from 121kg, set in February, to an impressive 123kg. Britain's Zoe Newson finished in second place with a leading lift of 109kg, 14kg lighter than Lingling’s effort.

Lingling’s outstanding performance took place in front of a passionate crowd at the La Chapelle Arena, keeping China firmly on top of the medal table at Paris 2024.

Guo Lingling's Triumph

Speaking about her achievement, Lingling expressed joy and excitement: “I am very excited and happy, and the atmosphere at the stadium was also very inspiring to me.” She also attributed China's continued success to its rigorous athlete training programs, saying, “The Chinese government spends a lot of money training people. So China will always be first on the gold medal tally.”

Cui Zhe Claims Gold

In another victory for China, Cui Zhe set a new Paralympic record in the up to 41kg class. After earning four silvers in previous Paralympic appearances, the 37-year-old finally captured gold by lifting an impressive 119kg, nearly three times her body weight.

“I've always had faith in myself and believed that I could get the gold,” Zhe said. “I've been very determined with this target and never given up, always giving my best performance at competitions. To become a Paralympic champion has always been my target, and I’ve always had faith in getting it done.”

Other Highlights

In the men's powerlifting event, Jordan's Omar Qarada successfully defended his title in the up to 49kg category with a stunning lift of 181kg. Meanwhile, Cuba's Pablo Ramirez is anticipated to be the top contender in the up to 45kg final, scheduled later in the day.