Xu Jiayu, Zhang Yufei Add Titles at Chinese Championships; Li Bingjie Continues Distance Roll
China’s Xu Jiayu, a two-time world champion in the event, positioned himself for a run at a third global title in the 100-meter backstroke when he prevailed in 52.61 at the Chinese Championships on Monday. Xu claimed world crowns in the 100 back in 2017 and 2019, and will look to add a third gold medal when he heads to Doha for February’s World Champs.
Coming off a victory in the 100 butterfly from the opening night of the competition, Zhang Yufei topped the field in the 50 freestyle on Day Two, thanks to a performance of 24.58. Joining Zhang, the reigning World Champs silver medalist, in sub-25 territory were Yang Junxuan (24.85) and Cheng Yujie (24.91).
Distance standout Li Bingjie easily cracked the 16-minute barrier in the 1500 freestyle, going 15:56.04. She was followed to the wall by Zhang Ke, who checked in with a time of 16:01.36. Li won the 400 freestyle on the first day of action and still has the 200 freestyle and 800 freestyle as part of her busy program.
In other action, Yang Chang was the top finisher in the women’s 100 breaststroke, on the strength of a 1:06.38 effort. Meanwhile, Ji Xinjie clipped Pan Zhanle in the men’s 200 freestyle. Ji posted a swim of 1:46.49, with Pan right behind in 1:46.72. Also claiming victory was Peng Xuwei, who took the women’s 100 backstroke in 59.83.