Born: 1983 (Panyu, Guangzhou, Guangdong)
Biography:
Chen Xiexia, born on January 8, 1983, in Panyu, Guangzhou, Guangdong, is a Chinese weightlifter who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Her career accomplishments include winning multiple gold medals at the world championships and representing China in the 2008 Summer Olympics.
Chen burst onto the weightlifting scene in 2007, where she showcased her immense talent by clinching three gold medals at the World Weightlifting Championships. This was only a glimpse of what was to come for the young athlete.
The pinnacle of Chen’s career came in 2008 when she made history as the first Chinese weightlifter to secure a gold medal at the prestigious Summer Olympics. Competing in the 48 kg class, she not only claimed the Olympic title but also set a new Olympic Record by lifting an astonishing total of 212 kg. The crowd at the Beijing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics Gymnasium erupted in joy as Chen triumphantly yelled jia you! (come on!) and flawlessly executed all six of her lifts, including a snatch of 95 kg and a clean and jerk of 117 kg. Her exceptional performance showcased her immense strength, technique, and mental fortitude.
Prior to her Olympic success, Chen had already established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the weightlifting community. At the 2007 Asian Championships, she displayed her dominance by clinching three gold medals while setting a world record of 120 kg in the clean and jerk discipline. Her exceptional achievements in regional and international competitions solidified her reputation as one of the greatest weightlifters of her time.
However, Chen’s illustrious career was not without its challenges. On January 12, 2017, it was revealed that she had tested positive for a banned substance during the 2008 Olympic Games. As a result, she was disqualified from the competition and stripped of her gold medal. This revelation was a heartbreaking blow for Chen and her fans, as her achievements had been marred by this doping violation. The gold medal was subsequently awarded to Chen Wei-Ling of Chinese Taipei, who had originally won the bronze.
Despite this setback, Chen Xiexia’s impact on the sport cannot be overlooked. Her accomplishments have inspired generations of weightlifters in China and around the world. She has showcased the dedication, discipline, and determination required to reach the pinnacle of athletic success. Chen’s legacy as a trailblazer for Chinese weightlifting and her contributions to the sport will forever be remembered.
Awards:
– Gold medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics in the 48 kg weightlifting category (later stripped due to a doping violation)