Korean Gold in Weightlifting at the Asian Games
by Randall J. Strossen, IronMind Enterprises, Inc. © 2002
Pusan, Korea – It couldn't have been a happier crowd watching the 85-kg men's weightlifting tonight as Song Jong Shik (KOR) gave the hosts their first gold medal in the sport at this year's Asian Games.
The door was opened for a surprise winner when Shahin Nasirinia (IRI) bombed out in the snatch with 170 kg. Song ended up with a 167.5 kg snatch and then missed 202.5 in the clean and jerk, made it, and followed with a good 205. Yuan (CHN) had the last shot at overtaking Song, as he took 212.5 on his third attempt, but it was no cigar.
Earlier today, in the women's 75-kg category, Sun Ruiping rewrote the record book in dramatic fashion. The day started with world records of 116/143 and by the end of the session, Sun had snatched 118.5 and cleaned and jerked a huge 152.5!