China

Liu Xiang finishes first in EAG 110m hurdels heat

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-12-11 13:11
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HONG KONG: Chinese star hurdler Liu Xiang finished first at 14.02 seconds Friday in Heat 1 of 110m hurdles at East Asian Games.

Liu Xiang finishes first in EAG 110m hurdels heat
Liu Xiang of China competes in the Men's 110M hurdles heats at the East Asian Games in Hong Kong December 11, 2009. [Agencies] 

Liu didn't have a strong start, but good midway rhythm helped him win the heat with ease. Japan's Yume Moses came second at 14.12.

Liu waved to the spectators after finishing the heat, but he didn't make any comments to reporters in the mixed zone.

Liu's participation drew a huge number of audience and considerable media coverage in Tseung Kwan O Sports Ground. An unexpected number of spectators packed the stadium while photographers and cameramen had already been in position before the game started.

"I came early this morning to watch Liu's performance," said a Hong Kong citizen who only gave his surname Ho. "I think there is no doubt that Liu will win."

In Heat 2, South Korean Park Taekyong finished first at 13.95 seconds, the best in the two heats of 110m hurdles, followed by China's Ji Wei at 13.96 seconds.

The 110m hurdlers final will take place Friday afternoon.