Asian Games, day 1: Japan triathlete Hojo claims first gold; Elg and Coggins also-rans

Takumi Hojo holds off China’s Zhang Xiuri to win men’s race in Nagoya. Hong Kong pair Robin Elg and Oscar Coggins finish sixth and seventh

Japan’s Takumi Hojo won the first gold of the Asian Games on Sunday, giving the host nation the perfect start and providing officials an opportunity for some positive news after a week of negative headlines.

Defending the title won by compatriot Kenji Nener in Hangzhou three years ago, Hojo held off the challenge of China’s Zhang Xiuri to cross the line in 52 minutes, 56 seconds.

Zhang finished nine seconds back, while bronze went to Kazakhstan’s Arlan Zhanabay, who crossed in 53:11.

Hong Kong triathlete Oscar Coggins, meanwhile, did not exactly bury his demons of 2023, but at least this time managed to finish the race after withdrawing midway through last time out.