Source: CCTV.com

03-26-2007 09:20

Tuesday marks the 500 day countdown to the opening of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. And to celebrate the special milestone, a series of events have taken place across the capital. BOCOG President, Liu Qi and State Councilor, Chen Zhili have led thousands of people from all walks of life to gather in Chaoyang park. The Long Distance Walk is to show support to this international event.

About six thousand people including the BOCOG President, Liu Qi and State Councilor, Chen Zhili laced up their shoes for the Beijing International Long Distance Walk Carnival on Sunday morning.

Liu Qi said, "I feel very good, mass participation is what we need for the Beijing Olympics."

Unlike the competition that usually weighs heavily on every athlete of the Olympic Games, this event is the complete opposite. A non-competitive happy gathering of people, interested in the taking part, and not necessarily the winning.

Locals and visitors alike, took part in the walk, including a foreign man who has a disability that affects the way he walks. He proved that nothing could stop him...for he has been inspired by the enthusiasm of the Chinese people.

Mohamed Awil, Somalian ambassador to China, said, "Beijing Olympic now went on smoothly and the people are very nice."

A countdown board that had been set up along the roadside, attracted many onlookers, who used their cameras to capture the exciting atmosphere.

Hou Jianguo, a participant, said, "I am very proud that the 2008 Olympic Games will be held in my country. I can't wait for the big event, I hope the days can go much faster. 500 days is still too long for me. I think the Beijing Olympics will be the best one of all the sports events."

The most important aspect for participants here today is the taking part. No prizes, no place standings and no medals to vie for. They are just enjoying the activity of walking, and have come out to show their early support for the 2008 Olympic Games.

Editor:Liu Fang