The first round of the competition allowed each athlete three attempts, with the top eight performers given three more throws.
Unlike the Universiade, both rounds' results are counted, meaning the best result is chosen from the six attempts.
Link appeared in the 12th position in the first round.
Ahead of him, American athlete Adam Nelson led with a 21.16-meter throw, the Ukrainian Bilonog was second with 21.08 meters, and the Dane Olsen was third with 20.98 meters.
All three of these athletes' preliminary results surpassed Link's Asian record of 20.81 meters set last September in the Philippines, showing ferocious competitiveness.
Before Link's turn came up, half of the Huaxia delegation leaders arrived.
There were even higher-ranking officials than the head of the delegation watching from the stands, leaving coach Li Yabing very anxious, reminding Link to relax, that standing here was already a victory, and not to be too nervous or overly concerned.
