China's historic road to Olympics

On May 8, 2008, the Beijing Olympic torch, together with flame and flags, arrived at the peak of the Himalayas, which acted as a unique way to pay tribute to the first Olympics ever held in China. [Photo/Xinhua]

The 29th Games were held in the Chinese capital Beijing. Some 639 athletes formed the largest ever team in China's Olympic history. They captured 51 gold, 21 silver and 28 bronze medals, and did their best to reach the top in rankings. On Aug 6, Yao Ming, a Chinese basket player, took part in the torch relay. [Photo/Xinhua]

At the Beijing Games, China's gymnastics team won nine gold medals, a huge improvement to the one gold at the previous games in Athens. Both the men's and women's teams won the team competition and became the dream teams at the Games. Li Xiaopeng competed in the men's parallel bars, on Aug 12, 2008. [Photo/Xinhua]

The Chinese delegation entered the stadium at the opening ceremony of the 29th Summer Olympics in Beijing, Aug 8, 2008. [Photo/Xinhua]

The Chinese delegation entered the stadium at the opening ceremony of the 29th Summer Olympics in Beijing, Aug 8, 2008. [Photo/Xinhua]