The Shanghai-born runner tied the Asian record of 13.06 seconds which was set by himself to win the National Track & Field Grand Prix in Tianjin.

It's one of the last warm-up races before Athens, so China's team director Feng Shuyong can't hide his excitement.

"We knew he's in pretty good form, but we didn't expect it to be so good. If he carries on the momentum, we can realistically hope for at least a medal in the Olympics."

Liu Xiang is now China's hottest star athlete, probably second only to basketball sensation Yao Ming. Regarded as the most formidable challenger against American sprinter Allen Johnson, he knows what it takes for fulfill the dream of winning China's first ever short-distance sprint medal in the Olympics.

"I have to make sure about my fitness. Injuries would be my major enemy. Then I just need to relax and give my best, though I know it's very difficult to keep cool when you know you have the best ever chance to make it."

Liu Xiang has beaten Johnson once this year, but he's aware he's still the world's No.2. Maybe this self-positioning will help him to remain well composed once standing behind the start line in Athens. (Photo source: sina.com.cn) 

(CRI August 2, 2004)