(Central News Agency, reporter Li Jianzhong, Taipei, 6th) Taiwan's men's pole vault national record holder Wu Yan-Han won gold at the New Taipei International Athletics Open today by clearing 5.51 meters, breaking the national record again. He said with a smile, "I planned to break the record before the competition. I am quite satisfied with my performance."

The 21-year-old Wu Yan-Han won silver at the Sun Moon Lake International Pole Vault Competition in Nantou on March 22 this year with a height of 5.50 meters, setting a new national record. Two days later, his senior, Huang Yong-Fu, also cleared 5.50 meters at the Nantou International Indoor Pole Vault Invitational, meaning the two shared the national record.

Today's New Taipei International Athletics Open men's pole vault had 16 participants. Wu started at 4.95 meters, then cleared 5.10 meters and 5.30 meters on his first attempts. After all other competitors were eliminated and his gold medal was secured, Wu directly challenged 5.51 meters, aiming to surpass the previous national record of 5.50 meters.

Although his first two attempts failed, Wu adjusted his steps and breathing. On his third and final attempt, he successfully cleared the bar at 5.51 meters, once again becoming the sole national record holder.

In a post-competition interview, Wu said that after breaking the national record at Sun Moon Lake, his plan was to stabilize his performance. "However, before today's competition, I saw the weather was so good that I decided to aim for the national record. I am very happy I achieved it."

After breaking the national record, Wu attempted the meet record of 5.65 meters but gave up after just one attempt. He mentioned that the wind speed and direction at that time were unfavorable for the athletes, "so I didn't push myself to continue."

Wu emphasized that before the Nagoya Asian Games in September, he will find a few more international competitions to adjust his form. "I hope to achieve this height of 5.65 meters at the Asian Games, or even jump higher." (Editor: Li Hengshan) 1150606

FACT BOX

  • Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
  • Category: Event