China's Shi wins women's 3m springboard at FINA Diving

In a battle against the scorching heat, China's Shi Tingmao showed her superb consistence and won her first champion in the women's 3m springboard at the 19th FINA Diving World Cup on Sunday.

Shi, world champion in 1m springboard in 2011 and winner of 3m springboard synchro together with Olympic and world champion Wu Minxia in 2013 Worlds as well as in Shanghai World Cup, led the field since third round and won in 383.40, beating her world champion teammate He Zi to the second place with 369.65.

Jennifer Abel of Canada finished third in 364.05 and Maddison Keeney of Australia fourth 346.00.

"We have experienced various weather since the World Cup started on July 15, including heavy rain, shower, cloudy and sunny days. This afternoon is the first time we face such a burning sun during the competition. It is not easy to compete in outdoor pool, but I believe everyone has tried best," said the 22-year-old Shi.

"It is also my first time to compete in the individual 3m springboard. It is a chance that I hope to test and improve myself. Comparing with my teammates He Zi and Wu Minxia, I am a rookie in the big events and far away from them," Shi said.

Shi started to pair up with Wu Minxia since last year's Barcelona World Championships. "I need to gain experience and learn from others in the future."

Reigning world champion and London Olympic runner-up, He Zi dominated the opening two rounds in the final before she made mistakes in 305B (Reverse 2.5 somersault) and 107B (Forward 3.5 somersault) as her third and fourth dives.

"I don't want to blame the sun to my defeat. I have to say I still need to work on my dives in daily training. I have learned a lesson from today that I should overcome all the difficulties in the competition," He said.

A bronze is for Jennifer Abel,"It is a tough competition and the top two Chinese divers are very strong, It is very hot today and I am really happy with medal," said Abel who had won a bronze medalist in 2011 World Championships.

The men's 10m platform final will be held later on July 20.