Home Triumphs at IFSC Speed World Cup Wujiang 2025
Chinese Climbers Dazzle in Wujiang
The 2025 IFSC Speed World Cup in Wujiang was a spectacle of sensational energy and edge-of-the-seat excitement. Among the highlights, China’s Long Jianguo and Zhang Shaoqin pulled off memorable victories, sending waves of ecstasy through the home crowd. Their triumphs underscored the rising tide of talent within China’s climbing scene.
Long Jianguo’s Path to Glory
Long Jianguo embarked on an arduous journey to his championship moment, setting out in the qualifiers with a daunting 4.874 seconds. Facing formidable opponents—Japan’s Omasa Ryo, Ukraine’s Yaroslav Tkach, and Indonesia’s Kiromal Katibin—Long blazed a path to the finals. His final showdown saw him clinch victory against Ukraine’s Hryhorii Ilchyshyn, crossing the finish line at 4.88 seconds.
Zhang Shaoqin’s Surprise Finish
The women’s finals held their own share of surprises, notably through Zhang Shaoqin’s performance. Despite entering the finals with the seventh-fastest qualifying time, Zhang delivered a stunning finish by besting top qualifier Jeong Jimin of Korea. Her victory, achieved by a breathless 0.05-second margin, at 6.32 seconds to Jimin’s 6.37, left spectators cheering for more.
Watson’s Record-Setting Hopes Dashed
On the international front, USA’s Samuel Watson contended fiercely, aiming to redefine his world record. Though he led the qualification rounds with 4.76 seconds and clocked 4.78 seconds soon after, the finals evaded his grasp. Ultimately, he concluded the event in fourth, with his poignant story of balancing competition and remote exams adding drama to the event.
The Competitive Landscape
This year’s competition in Wujiang put the spotlight not only on the victors but also on the sport’s ever-evolving competitive landscape. From Olympian stalwarts like Aleksandra Miroslaw, who missed semifinals, to rising global rivals, the Sport Climbing World Cup’s unfolding story captivates with each round.
More than a regional triumph, the Wujiang World Cup stands as a testament to the global and unrelenting pursuit of climbing excellence. According to Olympics.com, these events continue to reshape the dynamics and youth fervor in sports climbing worldwide.
