Olympic flame for Rio Games lit at ancient Olympia

The Olympic flame was lit Thursday in an ancient temple in one country in crisis and solemnly sent off carrying international hopes that Brazil's political paralysis will not taint the Rio Games that start in barely 100 days.

As the flame was kindled in the 2,600 year-old Temple of Hera at Ancient Olympia, International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach and Rio organisers sought to rally support for their cause.

Bach told the ceremony that the Rio Games will be held "in a world shaken by crises" but hailed preparations for the first Olympics in South America.

"In just a few weeks, the Brazilian people will enthusiastically welcome the world and amaze us with their joy of life and their passion for sport," he predicted.

"This will be Brazil's moment and this will be Brazil's Games."

"Despite the difficulties that Brazil is facing today, the flame is a timeless reminder that we are all part of the same humanity," Bach said...
[i24news.tv by AFP]
21/4/16