China's ace long jumper Gao wants Shanghai win to be rid of Rio pain

China's promising long jumper Gao Xinglong is ready to shake off regrets from the Rio Olympic Games and start afresh at the 2017 Shanghai Diamond League.

Shanghai has been a lucky place for Gao and the two-time Diamond League meeting winner wants a win to shake off his frustration from last year's Rio Olympic Games, reports Xinhua news agency.

"I got quite a big blow when I fouled out at the Rio Olympic Games, where I had aimed to take a medal," said Gao who recorded the personal best of 8.34 metres in 2015.

Jeff Henderson of the United States became the eventual champion on 8.38 metres ahead of South African Luvo Manyonga and Britain's Greg Rutherford.

"I had trained really hard that year and been in awesome form. I had never expected to finish my first Olympic trip with three fouls. I guess I was nervous in Rio and did not perform at the level I should be," Gao said.

Gao, 23, will defend his Shanghai title on Saturday evening, against old rivals including Henderson and Manyonga. He said he was relaxed despite the strong field.

"If I perform well, I have a chance of winning because I like this track very much and it helps me to create good results," he said.

--IANS

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