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Swimmer Cai wins 1st Para Games gold for China

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-12-13 14:25

GUANGZHOU - Fifteen-year-old swimmer Cai Yuqingyan broke her own Asian record to win the first gold medal for China in the women's S9 400m freestyle competition at the inaugural Asian Para Games on Monday.

Fifteen-year-old swimmer Cai Yuqingyan swims in the women's S9 400m freestyle competition at the inaugural Asian Para Games on Monday. [Photo/Xinhua]

Cai clocked 4 minutes 56.91 seconds in the final, nearly 4 seconds ahead of previous Asian mark of 5:00.51.

"I am very happy to win the first Para Games gold medal for China. I need to thank my coach, who really helped me a lot," said Cai, who lost part of her right leg.

"Swimming has changed my life. After I took up the sport, I won glory as an athlete by breaking Asian record and winning gold medals," Cai said, adding that her eyes have already been set on the 2012 Paralympic Games.

Japanese swimmer Yukako Hata took the silver in 5:21.63 and Surerut Komkeaw of Thailand grabbed the bronze medal.