Proud parents, relatives and officials rejoice over Shanghai surprise

Liu Xiang's face took on the look of a delighted little boy as he spoke to his parents after his heroic night.

'Dad and mum, I have won the Olympics, and got a gold medal,' the 21-year-old told his parents in a teleconference arranged by Shanghai Dragon Television.

'A gold medal,' he continued. 'It was like in a dream. I think I will do even better in the future. I am still young. I will strive to break the world record in the 2008 Olympics.'

Outside Liu's home in Shanghai, a 500-strong crowd, comprising Liu's family, relatives, neighbours and reporters, clapped and laughed, crackers exploded and champagne flowed after they watched Liu dash to the finish line.

Liu's father, Liu Xuegen, said: 'I am not surprised by my son's [good results].'

Liu's mother, Ji Fenhua, who had to be supported by her sister after watching the race, told Xinhua in tears: 'I didn't know he can run that fast. It is like a dream. My heart is shaking. My son, you are great.' His mother, who has not seen Liu for three months already, later told mainland media: 'I want to tell my son you are great. You have brought a gold medal for China's track and field team and brought glory to Chinese.'