Source: CCTV.com

03-26-2007 09:20

For the more athletic, a 10-kilometer race has also been held in the city. Over 10,000 people got involved, as part of the lead up to the opening of the Olympic Games.

"Participation, Contribution and We are happy". That's the message as these students from Beijing's No.55 Middle School cheer and prepare for the 10km running race.

The festival involves people from all walks of life. It's an opportunity for the Chinese people, and visitors in Beijing, to show their enthusiasm for the fast approaching 2008 Olympic Games.

Beijing's citizens have their own way of marking the 500-day countdown to the opening of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. They will start running here and make their way to the China Millennium Monument. The Beijing Olympics is not only a sporting event, it is also an opportunity for every Chinese citizen to welcome guests from all over the world."

Senior and junior runners finished after running 5 kilometers. Adults and international competitors ran the 10 kilometer race along Chang'an Avenue. The smile on their faces show how happy they are to take part in such a gala.

Daniel Piccuta, American embassy, said, "It's quite exciting to run today."

Dong Shijing from China Aero Space Science and Industry Corp. said, "Before I got to the finishing line, I felt more and more energetic because so many people were cheering for us."

Beijing and its citizens are well prepared for the Olympics. In 500 days time, the opening ceremony will mark the start of the biggest international sports gala...and the eyes of the world will be on Beijing.

Editor:Liu Fang