Super Dan eyeing a new record at National Games

QINGDAO, East China, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese top shuttler Lin Dan is closing in on a new record after he stormed into men's singles finals of badminton tournament at the 11th Chinese National Games here on Saturday.

As a record winner of three consecutive world championships, Linis chasing another record -- the first player to defend men's singles title in National Games history.

Lin, who represents People's Liberation Army, overcame world No.4 Chen Jin from Jiangsu 21-17, 15-21, 21-7 in a 82-minute semifinal duel. This was a replay of the semifinal of last National Games when Lin defeated Chen to advance into the finals then lifted the title after pipping Bao Chunlai from Hunan.

Bao notched up the other semi after taking down Hu Yun from Hong Kong 21-14, 21-6.

"Bao has clinched several titles this year and is now in good shape," said second world ranked Lin. "The final could be a fierce battle."

Bao was tortured by knee injury earlier this year but still managed to be crowned in Asian Championships in April, Singapore Super Series in June, and Japan Super Series in September.