Yearender: 2015, year of breakthrough for China's athletics

Liu Hong crosses the finishing line. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

"A good result depends on not only your own ability, but also some external conditions including the weather, the course and your opponents," said Liu. "I have planned to break the mark in several previous competitions. In Spain, every conditions were just right."

After becoming the world fastest female walker, Liu attributed her success to Italian coach Sandro Damilano, who has been guiding her since 2010.

"I am just an executor on the course. My coach and everyone of the team tried their best to help me achieve the goal. I feel lucky to train with him. He really helped me a lot," said a grateful Liu.

The excellent executor was once again triumphant at the World Championships in August. After having collected one silver and two bronze medals from previous editions, Liu finally climbed to the top of the podium after leading a one-two finish with teammate Lu Xiuzhi in Beijing.