DAEGU, South Korea, (Reuters) – Li Yanfeng finally got the success she had been waiting for by winning China’s first world discus title yesterday.
The 32-year-old secured the gold with a throw of 66.52 metres on her second attempt on a breezy night in Daegu. Germany’s Nadine Muller was second (65.97) and Cuban Yarelys Barrios took the bronze (65.73).
“I am already 32 years old and I was waiting so many years for this success. This was my dream and it just came true,” said Li.
“My coach helped me a lot on the way to the medal and I was expecting an even longer throw, over 67 metres. This medal is a big achievement for us because it will be written in the history as the first gold in this event.”
Defending champion Dani Samuels of Australia failed to throw over 60 metres and finished in 10th place.
“When I am tense there is no rhythm, speed or acceleration,” said Samuels, who became the youngest world champion in the event in Berlin two years ago.
“It is very disappointing not to give myself the opportunity, but I just couldn’t get it together today,” added the 23-year-old.
