The Australian University Team has broken its previous record of medals, after claiming 16 at the 26th Summer Universiade in Shenzen, China.

Over the twelve day event Australia recorded five gold, three silver and eight bronze medals in 16 different sports to surpass their previous record of 12 medals.

The team, comprised of 148 athletes, 59 team officials and 8 technical officials was also the largest ever international university team to represent Australia at an overseas competition.

Of the 148 athletes who participated on the team, 21 have competed at the Olympic or Commonwealth Games, and numerous athletes have competed at a world championship in their selected sport.

‘A number of our athletes have competed at the Olympics and Commonwealth Games, and they bring with them their experience and knowledge of competition at this level, which benefits the rest of the team,’ said Australian Chef de Mission Martin Roberts.

An Olympian and Commonwealth medallist, Roberts takes great pride in the success of the team, after having also led the 2009 Summer Universiade team.

‘Our success this year surpasses any result Australia has previously achieved at this level, and the quality of this team reflects the training and support provided for elite athletes in Australia.

‘I certainly expect to see many of these athletes in London next year at the Olympics, and in Glasgow for the next Commonwealth Games.”

The 26th Summer Universiade Closing Ceremony was held yesterday, while the 27th Summer Universiade will be held in Kazan, Russia in 2013.