China Breaks World Record at Speed Climbing Event in Guiyang

Chinese climbers Ling Yongzhi and Zhao Yicheng rewrote the record books in spectacular fashion, racing up a 15-meter wall in just 9.58 seconds to set a new men's speed relay world record. The pair then topped their own record in the gold medal race, finishing at 9.67 to claim victory at the World Climbing Series in Guiyang.

The breakthrough came during the semi-finals when both athletes each completed their leg in an identical 4.79 seconds. Their combined time erased the previous world record of 9.75 seconds, setting up an all-Chinese finals showdown.

Ling celebrated the achievement with infectious enthusiasm: "I'm so happy for both the gold medal and the world records, now I get to share a record with the individual world record holder." Zhao revealed an even more impressive detail about their partnership, explaining this was their very first time climbing together as a team.

The women's competition delivered equally exciting results as Fan Jingyue and Zhang Shaoqin saved their best performance for last. The Chinese duo crossed the finish line at 13.18 seconds to capture gold in front of their home supporters.

Zhang's victory held special meaning beyond the podium. "I'm very happy to win gold in my hometown," she said, thanking friends and family who traveled to support her incredible achievement.

The results marked a historic sweep for China across both relay events. Austria's Kevin Amon and Lukas Windischerin added their own milestone by securing bronze in the men's race, earning Austria's first-ever relay medal and their third podium finish in speed climbing.

The Ripple Effect

China's dominance in the four-lane speed relay format is creating a new chapter in competitive climbing. This marks the second consecutive event where Chinese teams have claimed both men's and women's titles, following their sweep in Krakow earlier this season.

The success is inspiring a new generation of climbers in China and worldwide. Speed climbing's inclusion in major competitions has brought fresh energy to the sport, with athletes pushing human limits while competing in a thrilling format that takes seconds rather than minutes.

Austria's breakthrough bronze demonstrates how the sport is expanding globally, with new countries reaching the podium and inspiring their own climbing communities.

The final four-lane speed event of the season heads to Chongqing next week, where Zhao and Ling promise they might break their own brand-new record.