Japan triathlete Hojo wins first gold of Asian Games

NAGOYA: Japan's triathlete Takumi Hojo secured the country's first gold medal of the Asian Games with a dominant performance in the men's individual triathlon. Hojo completed the demanding 750-meter swim, 20-kilometer bike ride, and 5,000-meter run in Gamagori city in 52 minutes and 56 seconds. This impressive margin of victory - nine seconds - over China's Zhang Xirui, and six seconds ahead of Kazakhstan's Arlan Zhanabay, gave Japan a significant morale boost.

The 30-year-old Hojo expressed his joy, stating, "As it's our first gold medal, it's given the Japanese team a real boost." He further revealed his readiness for the upcoming Olympics in Los Angeles, saying, "I was really fired-up. Even the rain held off, and I was in top form right up until I stood on the starting line."

Zhang, who finished second, acknowledged Hojo's superior performance, saying, "I am very happy, although disappointed to be behind Japan." He also recognized the honor this achievement brings to China, stating, "It is an honor for China."

Zhanabay, the third-place finisher, expressed his contentment, saying, "I'm very satisfied with the result. Of course, I would like to win, but we have what we have." He added, "I'm very proud because I'm only 20 and it's my first medal at the Asian Games."