The country boy heading for the top

Liu Yongbang often reminds people of Brendan Fraser, star of the movie George of the Jungle - long, curly hair, well-developed muscles and a cute smile. The only difference is that Liu doesn't dangle in the jungle, but off crags.

His hands are testament to his commitment: After 12 years of gripping rock faces, his fingers are scarred, and the joints below his fingertips are as thick as those near the palm.

The 27-year-old, known as "Abond" in Chinese climbing circles, is one of the country's best climbers - quite an achievement for someone who until the age of 15 herded cattle after school in rural Hunan province.