Chinese athletics picks up the pace

Paying tribute to the young guns, Xie said: "There are so many talented young sprinters coming through. They are absolutely bursting with energy and potential. Compared with my generation of sprinters, they are more competitive than when we were at their age, and they have a much better support system," Xie added.

"I believe they will eventually surpass what we've achieved. I hope they can lift Chinese athletics to a higher position on the biggest stages."

China also excelled in the field events, with women's shot put legend Gong Lijiao again leading the way by winning her third straight Asiad gold, with a throw of 19.58 meters.

"I still have a dream to finish, which is to reach 21 meters. This is the ultimate challenge for me, and this goal is my best motivation," said the 34-year-old world and Olympic champion.

"I have won many gold, silver and bronze medals at Asian Games, world championships and Olympics. When I finally decide to retire one day, I hope that the younger generation of Chinese shot putters will surpass me.

"I have been testing the limits of not just myself, but also of women's shot put in China. I hope to contribute more to its growth, and I want to help attract more attention to the sport. In the future, I hope China can continue to claim glory in women's shot put on the world stage."