China's Wushu star Yuan Xiaochao captured the first gold medal at the Guangzhou Asian Games for the host country in the men's Changquan form on Saturday.

The defending champion Yuan, 22, impressed the judges and audiences with acrobatic, swift moves to snatch the gold medal with 9.78 points.

Japan's Daisuke Ichikizakitook the silver with 9.72 and Iran's Peyghambari Ehsan claimed the bronze with 9.70 points.

"I know my parents must be watching me now through the live broadcast, and I hope they will be healthy," said Yuan.

China's hope for the 1st gold of the whole Games rest on the shoulder of world champions Yuan, basing on his undefeated performances these years.

"It's my first time to see so many journalists. Such a tense attention on me means pressure, but motivation as well," said Yuan.

More than 150 athletes will compete for 15 gold medals in Wushu, a full contact sport derived from Chinese martial art. The Chinese, who founded the sport, are seen the favorites in the 10 events they will participate.

The sport comprises Taolu (set routines), and Sanshou boxing (free sparring). Changquan form, or long fist boxing, featuring imitations of animal moves, is the basic and main style of modern Wushu, mostly performed in north China.

A total of 476 gold medals are on offer at the Guangzhou Games, with around 9,700 athletes from 45 countries and regions competing in 42 sports until Nov. 27.

(Xinhua News Agency November 13, 2010)