Olympic champion broke weightlifting world record at National Games

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Olympic champion Long Qingquan made his impressive debut at the 11th Chinese National Games as he broke weightlifting legend Mutlu's jerk world record in men's 56kg category Friday.

Long of Hunan hoisted 169kg in his final attempt to smash the jerk world record by one kilo, which was made by Turkish Olympic champion Halil Mutlu in 2001.

"Surpassing Mutlu is my dream. I hope one day I can break all the three world records made by him," Long told the press.

"I felt great before the competition. Bettering the world record is my plan," he added.

Although other young lifters tried to challenge Long, the 19-year-old Olympic champion showed no tension during the competition. He lifted a total of 302kg to win the gold, ten kilos more than his Olympic result.

"I need a rest and then start to prepare for the London Olympics," said Long, who had not decided whether to compete in the world championships in November.

Li Lizhi of Chinese Army, winner in the World Cup in 2007, had the silver at 293kg, beating his teammate Wu Jingbiao by body weight advantage.

"I didn't have a good snatch today. I could have snatched more," Li said.

However, Long's performance will not be written into the world records because the sport governing body, the International Weightlifting Federation, only recognizes records set in world, continental and Olympic competitions.

 

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