Source: Xinhua

09-16-2008 10:34

Special Report:   Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games

Australia's Matthew Cowdrey grabbed his fifth gold medal at the Beijing Paralympics on Monday as China built up an unassailable lead in the medal standings.

Li Duan of China celebrates after winning the final of the men's long jump F11 classification event at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games in Beijing on September 15, 2008.[Xinhua]

China has won 80 gold medals, nearly twice the haul of nearest rival Britain (41). With 45 gold at stake over the last two days' competitions, the host nation looks set to top the medal count when the Games closes tomorrow.

On the last day of swimming events, the Australian men's 4x100m medley relay team emerged triumphant at the Water Cube, giving Cowdrey his fifth gold of the Games.

Cowdrey, who also won the 100m freestyle, the 200m individual medley, the 100m backstroke and the 50m freestyle, joined South African amputee swimmer Natalie du Toit as the most crowned Paralympian in Beijing.

"On a personal note, to come away with five gold is simply amazing," said the 20-year-old Australian.

"These events seem to be short when you get to them, but the four years in between are very long," he added.