In the 62kg men s weightlifting match of Beijing Olympic Games at 11th August night, Zhang Xiangxiang, an athlete form Minxi, won the 9th gold medal for China. This is the 4th gold medal for China Weightlifting Team and the first gold medal for the athletes from Minxi at Beijing Olympic Games.
Longyan City burst into joy at the news, people rushed out to celebrate with fireworks and firecrackers. Zhang Yuhe, Zhang Xiangxiang s father was more than excited: It has been hard for Xiangxiang these years. He won the championship. Great! Zhu Riping, his initial coach told the reporter at home: Xiangxiang has made his best performance, he deserves it.
Zhang Xiangxiang told the reporter in Beijing: Thanks to the concern and support of the people from my hometown. I have struggled for 18 years, my dream eventually comes true.
Zhang Xiangxiang was born in a common family in Longyan City in July 1983. He began to play weightlifting in Longyan Youth Sport School at the age of 8, and won the National Youth Championship at 12. In Sydney Olympic 2000, he won the 56kg bronze medal.
