Swimmer Zhang Lin in spotlight at National Games

Watch Video

Play Video

One of the stars of the national games is Zhang Lin. As an 18 year old, the swimmer won four gold medals at the 2005 National Games. Now 22, he has set his sights even higher. Zhang Lin will attempt to win six gold medals in 8 days. He has already won one, and if successful, he will become the most decorated athlete in the National Games history.

From the minute Zhang Lin arrived in Jinan and stepped off the bus at these national games he has been the centre of attention. The media and the fans have followed the every move of the emerging superstar.

In the pool, Zhang finds an escape from the constant scrutiny he has been under in Jinan, but the easy-going star says he isn't letting it affect him.

Zhang Lin said, "I am happy with one gold medal. The six gold medals is an expectation placed on me by others, not my own. I thank the people for their wishes, but as long as I perform well in each event, that's enough for me.

Already well regarded within the world of swimming in China, Zhang burst onto the mainstream radar with a world record setting gold medal performance in the men's 800m freestyle at the World Aquatics Championships...and his star was on the rise.

He was instantly labelled the Liu Xiang of the pool. Magazine covers, endorsement deals, and instant fame followed.

Zhang Lin said, "There will be some pressure, but it's a normal progression. I will deal with it and do my job well."

But Zhang isn't letting his status go to his head.