A Chinese judge who is assigned to start races for male swimmers at the Olympic aquatic venue Water Cube said he is proud to witness some swimming feats at this Olympics.

"The decision (to appoint me as the starter judge) was a big surprise and a true honor for me as a Chinese," said Zhou Kai, a swimming judge from the earthquake-hit province of Sichuan.

As an experienced judge accredited by the aquatic events governing body FINA, Zhou is one of the only two judges selected to start races for men's competitions.

"When I announce 'take your mark', the swimmers will jump off to the most exciting races in their lives. It's both an exciting and demanding job," he said.

"My job is to be truly professional and precise. I wouldn't want to see any swimmers foul in their starts," he said.

The swimming heats will start at 6 p.m. on Saturday, with elite swimmers like American star swimmer Michael Phelps starting his quest for eight golds.

(Xinhua News Agency August 9, 2008)