China hero pulls out of hurdles

Updated 10.03 Mon Aug 18 2008
Keywords: liu xiang, olympics, olympic games, beijing olympics, athletics, sport

Sprinter Liu Xiang has shocked China by pulling out of the Olympic Games through injury.

Liu is the reigning Olympic champion over 110 metres hurdles and he is one of the most famous athletes in the country.

Liu looked uncomfortable as he warmed up and only managed to clear two hurdles as he preapred for the race

He was widely expected to win the gold medal but he limped out of the Olympic Stadium with an Achilles problem.

Liu looked uncomfortable as he warmed up and only managed to clear two hurdles as he prepared for the race.

However, he lined up for his heat and looked ready to compete.

But after a false start, Liu decided he was not fit enough to race and he walked off the track.

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