IOC seeks more proof of China gymnasts' ages

China have been asked to produce further proof that none of their gold-medal-winning female gymnasts are under age.

The International Federation of Gymnastics (FIG) says it wants to clarify 'once and for all' the ages of He Kexin, Jiang Yuyuan, Li Shanshan, Deng Linlin and Yang Yilin, who some claim will not turn 16 this year as the rules require.

On Thursday an American computer expert sent e-mails to media saying he had uncovered Chinese state documents that proved He was just 14.

The request for the Chinese Gymnastic Association to again open its books was initiated by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The move has angered China's sports chiefs.

'They don't believe in the documents from the Chinese authorities ... that's an insult, not only to the Chinese gymnasts but also to the Chinese government,' said Gao Jian, director of the Gymnastic Administrative Centre under the State General Sports Administration.

The five gymnasts all played a role in China's win in the team event, He scored a victory in the uneven bars and Yang won bronzes in the uneven bars and the women's individual all-around - so four medals are at stake.