Gu Xiaofei, a 37-year-old powerlifter from Tongzhou district in Nantong, Jiangsu province, won bronze in the men's 80-kilogram powerlifting event with a lift of 215 kg at the 5th Asian Para Games on Oct 21, despite severe pain caused by a rotator cuff injury.

Gu Xiaofei (right) celebrates his bronze medal in the men's 80 kg powerlifting event at the 5th Asian Para Games on Oct 21. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

In the event, Gu made three attempts. He opened successfully with a 211 kg lift. His second attempt at 215 kg initially appeared successful, but was later ruled invalid by the judges because his right hand was positioned too low. Under considerable pressure, he returned for his third attempt and lifted 215 kg, securing the bronze medal.

This was Gu's fifth appearance at the Games, following four consecutive championship victories.

In a post-event interview, Gu acknowledged his disappointment at being unable to extend his winning streak but said he had no regrets after pushing himself to his limits. Looking forward, Gu said he would focus on shoulder rehabilitation and recovery before resuming preparations for the 2028 Summer Paralympics in Los Angeles.

Over more than a decade of competition, Gu has won national championships, four consecutive Asian Para Games titles, four Paralympic silver medals, as well as World Para Powerlifting Championships and World Para Powerlifting World Cup titles. To date, he has accumulated 47 gold medals and over 10 silver medals at world-class and national para-sports competitions.