When he reached the tree, Yuanbao squatted down into a riding position, straining until his face was red as he held his fists at waist level and began pounding the date tree, reaching out after every punch to steady the tree, as if he was afraid he might knock it over. Every third punch was followed by a foot kick, keeping his balance - remember, he had a cactus plant tied to each leg - with the skill of an acrobat.