ZJU Teacher Zhang Jingzong Wins Silver in Men’s 400 Meters at 15th National Games
Zhejiang University (ZJU) lecturer Zhang Jingzong has won a silver medal in the men’s 400 meters at the 15th National Games. Zhang’s participation was noted by students in his physical fitness and ultimate frisbee courses, who observed his absence earlier this year, later discovering he was competing at the National Games.
Zhang’s Performance and Reflections
In the race’s final 50 meters, Zhang made a strong effort to secure his second-place finish. He remarked on the transient nature of an athlete’s prime, emphasizing his desire to avoid future regrets about missed opportunities.
Career Highlights
Zhang began his athletics career as a graduate student at Beijing Sport University, making his National Games debut in 2021, where he also earned a silver medal. After joining ZJU in 2023, he has balanced his teaching responsibilities with training and coaching, reflecting his continued dedication to track and field.
Training Regimen
To prepare for the 2025 games, Zhang adhered to a structured training regimen, implementing modern sprint training methods and coaching techniques. His qualification for the National Games involved accumulating ranking points through various competitions, ultimately achieving a personal best time of 45.61 seconds during the heats.
Weather Challenges and Success
Despite facing challenging wet conditions in the final race, Zhang maintained his composure and successfully secured another silver medal. He described the significance of the medals, won four years apart, as a “sense of release” and a testament to his dedication to athletics.
Coaching Philosophy
As a coach, Zhang has gained valuable insights into effective training methodologies, highlighting the importance of common goals and team culture for success in athletics. He aims to cultivate a supportive environment and believes that camaraderie is essential for sustaining motivation throughout the competitive season.
Commitment to Education
Zhang’s commitment to education extends beyond track coaching as he is pursuing further studies in sports, including acquiring coaching certifications in ultimate frisbee and pickleball to enhance the educational offerings for his students.
Personal Reflections
Reflecting on his athletic journey, Zhang summarizes his experiences with three words: “passion, confusion, and calm.” He acknowledges that while the 400 meters presents challenges, it has significantly influenced his perspective on both athletics and education. His career illustrates the intersection of his roles as an athlete and educator, underscoring the importance of perseverance in both domains.
(Source: Zhejiang University)
