Yuko Takahashi of Japan competes during the women's individual triathlon at the 19th Asian Games in Chun'an County, east China's Zhejiang Province, Sept. 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)
HANGZHOU, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- Japan's Yuko Takahashi clinched the gold medal in the women's individual triathlon Saturday at the Hangzhou Asiad, while China secured a silver and a bronze.
The event covers a grueling distance of 51.5 kilometers, including a 1.5-kilometer swim, a 40-kilometer bike ride, and a 10-kilometer run.
Takahashi maintained a commanding lead throughout the race, ultimately winning with a time of two hours, one minute, and four seconds. China's Lin Xinyu closely trailed Takahashi, finishing only 26 seconds behind, earning the silver medal, while her teammate Yang Yifan claimed the bronze.
Lin Xinyu (R) of China competes during the women's individual triathlon at the Hangzhou Asian Games on Sept. 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)
The Japanese acknowledged the pressure from other competitors during the race.
"The first half of the race was extremely tough, but I gradually found my rhythm in the latter half," said Yuko Takahashi.
Lin commented on the intense competition, stating, "It was a very nerve-wracking race. My teammate and I formed a small group to chase the leader. We kept closing the gap, and everyone could see that, but the gold medalist was better."
The triathlon mixed relay competition is scheduled to take place on Monday. ■