In China, the number of medals won by the nation’s athletes is considered an important indicator of “economic and social development” – and officials and citizens alike are hoping for a bumper crop of golds at next year’s Beijing Olympics.

Such hopes are not unreasonable. China won a record 32 gold medals at the 2004 Athens Games, not far behind the 36 taken by the US. In Beijing, local athletes will benefit from a home crowd and familiarity with the venues. Sports associations and sponsors are set to offer medal bonuses that will add an extra edge of financial interest to the quest for glory.