New face Zhang Chen shocks Olympic champion diver
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2005-04-04 08:43

Against Olympic champion Hu Jia, Zhang Chen performed his best and snatched his first ever gold medal on the last day of the FINA Grand Prix diving event here on Sunday.

Zhang Chen, seen here in 3rd April, 2005,prepared to dive off the 10-meter platform.15-year old Zhang beat Olympic champion and teammate Hua Jia and won his first gold medal. Zhang finished with 523.32 points.[xinhua]

China swept eight titles on offer from the three-day competition.

The 15-year-old Zhang, who competed in his second big event, won six perfect 10s from judges for his fifth dive in the final. He lifted the trophy with a total of 523.32 points, followed by Hu 510.96 and Robert Newbery of Australia 502.93.

Zhan said: "I didn't think much about the pressure from my elder rivals. The victory is a boost for me that now I hope I can compete in the 2008 Olympic Games."

Hu, who overturned super star Tian Liang in Athens, said: "His victory was a shock to me. I was exhausted because I was not in my peak form, but I'm satisfied with my dives. I did my best while Zhang was perfect."

Defending champion Wu Minxia showed a strong comeback in the last two dives to snatch the title of the women's 3m springboard. Wu beat her doubles partner Li Ting into second, winning 363.72 and 356.76, respectively.

Nancilea Underwood of the United States had the bronze.

FINA Grand Prix next stage is in Montreal, Canana during May 5-8.

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