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Chen Yilu (front row second from left) and Tian Hao (front row third from right) pose for a photo with their team members. [Photo/jiaxingren.com]

The 2024 Artistic Gymnastics Apparatus World Cup in Cottbus, Germany concluded on Feb 26, with China securing two gold, two silver, and one bronze medals. Notably, athletes Tian Hao and Chen Yilu from Jiaxing Children's Sports School performed exceptionally, claiming one silver and one bronze respectively in the men's horizontal bar and vault finals.

In the men's horizontal bar final, Tian scored 14.6 points with a difficulty of 6.3, tying with Chinese Taipei's Tang Jiahong for the highest score. Tian was awarded the silver medal, however, due to tie-breaking rules.

"It's a bit regrettable. I believe I had the capability to win against my opponents," expressed Tian. Yet, he found positives, stating, "This is my first time on the World Cup stage, which is valuable experience for future competitions."

Born in 2001, Tian idolized Li Ning and began gymnastics training at the age of 4. Selected for the Zhejiang Provincial Gymnastics Team at 9, Tian has progressed rapidly, winning titles at various competitions.

In the men's vault final, Chen secured bronze with consistent performances. Despite nerves, he stated, "Exchanging experiences with world-class athletes, I've discovered differences worth learning from."