Chinese 110m star hurdler Liu Xiang revealed that he was trying a new start technique to boost his winning chance in the future.

After his shock withdrawal at the 2008 Olympic Games, Liu underwent numerous operations and rehabilitation, and eventually returned to the field with renewed resolve. He won the third straight gold medal at the Asian Games last year.

While seeking his way back to the peak, Liu decided to make a big change that he will leap over the first hurdle after seven steps instead of eight in the past, Chinese portal Sina.com reported yesterday.

"The change poses as a big challenge for me and it may not be successful but I don't fear any failure," said the 27-year-old Liu.

The report said that Liu is expected to try his new technique as soon as the IAAF Diamond League Shanghai stop in May.

Liu became the top Chinese track and field star after he won gold in major competitions such as the Olympic Games in Athens and IAAF World Championships, which propelled China's status in the sport of track and field.