TESTING HIS METTLE

Li Pengcheng is creating a buzz after setting a China record at the 40th Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, Li Yingxue reports.

It had rained the day before the race. "On your marks!" came the order. As the crack of the starter's pistol broke the tension, the temperature was around 21 degrees, and there was breeze on the beach - it was the most perfect day to race in the event's 40-year history.

With the report of the gun still ringing in his ears, Li Pengcheng, also known as Buzz, along with more than 2,500 competitors, jumped into the water - 9 hours 10 minutes and 36 seconds later, he crossed the finish line as the first Asian athlete.