Trammell takes silver in men's 110-meter hurdles

ATHENS, Greece (AP) -- Liu Xiang won China's first gold medal in track and field Friday, tying the 100-meter hurdles world record and setting a new Olympic mark in 12.91 seconds.

Liu, who took bronze in the world indoor and outdoor championships last year, equaled the world mark set by Colin Jackson in 1993 and broke the Olympic record of 12.95 set by Allen Johnson in 1996.

The 21-year-old Liu, who became the favorite when Johnson crashed in the second round and failed to advance, had the lead throughout the race. He crossed the line in an ecstatic flurry of arms and legs, then pumped his fists in victory.

U.S. trials champion Terrence Trammell won silver in 13.18, while Anier Garcia of Cuba took bronze in 13.20.

Trammell, who won silver at the 2000 Olympics and 2003 world championships, was the only American in the final. Johnson, the four-time world champion, fell for just the second time in his career Wednesday to end his medal hopes. Duane Ross, the other American in the field, went out in the semifinals.