The first finals session of the Climbing programme at The World Games Chengdu 2025 saw China claim five of the six Speed medals on offer, with Chu Shouhong taking men’s gold and Deng Lijuan leading a clean sweep in the women’s event.
CHU LOWERS PB TWICE ON WAY TO MEN’S GOLD
Chu Shouhong of China delivered the fastest race of his career to win the men’s Speed gold medal, defeating Samuel Watson of the USA in the final. Chu clocked 4.80 seconds, lowering his previous personal best of 4.90 twice during the night — first with 4.83 in his quarter-final against top-seeded Raharjati Nursamsa of Indonesia, and then again in the gold medal race.
Watson, who had battled through the rounds despite a shoulder injury, posted 4.96 for silver. Long Jianguo of China took bronze in 4.83, defeating Ludovico Fossali of Italy, who slipped and finished in 6.33. Chu, Watson, and Long were the only athletes to break the 4.90 barrier in the finals.
“I’m very happy to have won this gold medal. I would also like to express my gratitude to my opponent, Sam Watson, it was him that pushed me to the limit and to give my best. I hope our team can have other satisfying results in the next two days and win more golds,” said Chu following the award ceremony.
For the men’s Speed complete results click here.