Gong Lijiao almost breaks national record

In the women's shot put, Berlin World Championships bronze medalist Gong Lijiao came close to breaking the national record. Gong from Hebei secured the gold with 19.83 meters, then decided to challenge the national record of 21.76 meters. Gong's final attempt stood at 20.35 meters but also surpassed her career best 19.89 meters, which was set in Berlin in August, when her first-round throw secured her the bronze. The world record is 22.63 meters set by Russian XXX in 1987.

Gong Lijiao's teammate Li Meiju finished second with 19.38 meters.

Li Ling from Liaoning was the third with 18.97 meters.

Gong took the gold as all her first five attempts just passed 19 meters, and her final attempt surpassed 20 meters. The 20-year-old said she didn't expect such good results, but admitted that she usually improves with each attempt in competitions.