China's Lyu breaks women's javelin throw Asian record

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China's Lyu Huihui broke the women's Asian javelin throw record at the World Athletics Championships in London on Sunday.

Lyu, the silver medalist in the 2015 worlds two years ago in Beijing, set the new Asian record of 67.59 meters in her first attempt, bettering the previous mark of 66.47 meters set by her compatriot Liu Shiying less than three months ago.

The 27-year-old said that she had not expected to achieve such a good result in qualifying round.

Lyu at 2017 IAAF World Championship in London /CCTV‍

"I have to admit I am surprised by my performance," said Lyu, who finished 5th in the 2012 London Olympics and 7th in Rio last year.

"In 2012, it was my first major international competition at this stadium during the London Olympic Games and I did well. I got fifth which was the best Chinese placement in the javelin throw in the history. So I like this stadium very much and I enjoy competing here."

"This performance boosts my confidence for the final. All the girls did really well but we will see what they do on Tuesday. I will focus on myself and hope for a medal."

(Source: Xinhua)