Liu Xiang to start new season

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Liu Xiang starts his journey of the new season, arriving in Germany for two stages of indoor 60M hurdles competition, right after a short period of training.

It's 8:30 in a sunny Shanghai morning, when Liu Xiang shows up riding comfortably on his bicycle. He arrives at the Shenzhuang Training Base for yet another day of hard training, looking at ease, but determined. The World Indoor Championship is days ahead for the Asian Games defending champion.

Coach Sun Haiping, having finished directing the other team members, starts his "special care" for Liu Xiang along with the team doctor. Before soon, the look on Liu Xiang's face was changed.

"From the recent observation, after his foot injury there has been pretty much lack of training in two areas, which are the specific skills and the specific strength. Those are being added on since the start of this winter training. With the two areas made up, I think it's likely for a good level of performance in the year coming."Sun Haiping said.

Fastening the sand bag onto his leg, Liu Xiang next starts his technical training. Over and again the hurdling move is repeated, and the sweat waved out of the simple and rigid practice.

Star hurdler Liu Xiang greets his fans a happy Chinese New Year befo! re leavi ng
for two indoor track-and-field tournaments in the German city of Dusseldorf
and Karlsruhe in Shanghai, Feb 8, 2011. [Photo/sports.sina.com.cn]

"Off the training, his foot is affected for sure. But this affection is a lot better than before, the extent is alleviated. As a matter of fact, considering the whole plan, this year will focus on keeping him stable and solid."said Sun Haiping.

"For the matches in Germany, my idea is mainly to listen to the starting shots and test running, nothing else. The winter training this year only began after a short rest following the Asian Games and therefore it was not long. So, I will listen to the shots and take the test, but without much pressure."Liu Xiang said.

Liu Xiang still needs ice treatment after the training. And 60m hurdles has never be counted as his strong program. But he will participate in the two stages of World Indoor Chmapionships in Germany on Feb 11th and 13th, to compete with top rivals, and start a fresh new season.

Liu Xiang (L) and his coach (R) arrive at the Shanghai Pudong Airport before
heading for the German city of Dusseldorf, Feb 8, 2011.
[Photo/sports.sina.com.cn]



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