Chinese star hurdler Liu Xiang finished first at 14.02 seconds Friday in heat 1 of 110m hurdles at East Asian Games.

Liu didn't have a strong start, but good midway rhythm help him win the heat with relative ease.

His 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 long before the game started.

The 110m hurdlers final will be held Friday afternoon.