Taiwan’s rising pole vault star, Ren Chun-ying (任純瑩), achieved a career milestone by claiming gold at the 2025 Thailand Open Track & Field Championships on Sunday, setting a personal best of 4.13 meters and marking the second-best performance by a Taiwanese female pole vaulter in history. This victory was not only a testament to Ren’s grit and dedication but also a beacon of hope for the future of Taiwanese track and field sports.
An Unexpected Win Against Strong Competition
Ren’s victory came as a surprise even to herself. Entering the competition with a personal best of 4.10 meters, she cleared the bar at 4.13 meters on her second attempt. The win put her ahead of eight other competitors from across the region, making her international debut one for the record books. Ren shared after the match that she felt nervous and had not anticipated breaking her own record, saying:
“I told myself to focus on doing my best and let the results come naturally. Breaking my record was unexpected, but this win gives me more motivation to aim even higher.”
A Milestone for Taiwanese Women’s Pole Vaulting
Ren’s 4.13m clearance now ranks as the second-best mark for a Taiwanese woman in the pole vault, second only to Wu Chia-ju (吳家如), who set the national record of 4.20 meters at the 2018 Thailand Open. This victory not only solidifies Ren as one of Taiwan’s premier pole vaulters but also highlights the rising level of women’s pole vaulting across the country.
Challenges Conquered: Weather, Pressure, and New Techniques
Ren credited her win to her rigorous training and mental fortitude. The windy and humid conditions of the Thailand Open posed significant challenges for athletes, especially in precision sports like pole vaulting. Yet, Ren adapted quickly. According to her coach, Tsai Chien-ming (蔡健銘), Ren rose to the occasion despite these hurdles.
“Ren has evolved greatly over the last three years. Her improved technique and enhanced speed have allowed her to compete with heavier poles, making a difference when every centimeter counts,” said Tsai.
The Road Ahead: Preparing for the National Games and 2026 Asian Games
With this victory under her belt, Ren has set her sights on the upcoming National Games in October, where she aims to match or exceed the 4.20m national record. She also hopes to secure a spot in the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, using the Thailand Open win as a springboard for further international success.
Taiwan’s Strong Showing at the Thailand Open
Ren wasn’t the only Taiwanese athlete making waves in Thailand.
- Chen Yi-chu (陳宜助) claimed the gold medal in the men’s shot put with a 17.32m throw, cementing Taiwan’s dominance in the field events.
- Liu Chih-jen (劉芷妊) also captured a bronze in the women’s discus throw, further bolstering Taiwan’s presence at the regional championships.
These victories reflect the growing depth and strength of Taiwan’s track and field program, as a new generation of athletes emerges to carry the nation’s flag on the international stage.
FAQs
What was Ren Chun-ying’s personal best in the Thailand Open?
Ren Chun-ying set a personal best of 4.13m in the women’s pole vault final.
What is the national record for women’s pole vault in Taiwan?
The current national record is 4.20m, set by Wu Chia-ju in 2018.
What are Ren Chun-ying’s future aspirations?
Ren aims to break the 4.20m mark at the upcoming National Games and qualify for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya.
What other Taiwanese athletes medaled at the Thailand Open?
Chen Yi-chu won gold in the men’s shot put (17.32m), and Liu Chih-jen claimed bronze in the women’s discus throw.
Why was this victory significant for Ren Chun-ying?
This win marked her international debut and placed her second in the national rankings, making it a significant milestone for her career and for Taiwanese women’s pole vaulting.
