MANCHESTER, July 17: Colin Jackson, who lost his long-standing 110m hurdles world record to Liu Xiang, believes the Chinese athlete's new mark could stand for 30 years.

“Mine lasted 13 years but I think Liu's could stand for 30 years,” said the Welshman whose mark of 12.91 seconds, set in 1993, was lowered to 12.88sec by the Olympic champion in Lausanne last week.

“It's a huge step in hurdling terms and I was happy to hand the record over to someone who has done so well and is such a great hurdler.”

Jackson said he was stunned by Liu's pace at the Swiss meet.

“He had a great start, he was really focussed on what he wanted to do.

“But even in those circumstances, with hot weather and a great track, I was really surprised he went so quickly.

“I wasn't expecting a time of 12.88 seconds. I thought it would come later when he was more experienced.”—AFP