Torchbearer Yao Ming holds the torch during the 2008 Beijing Olympics torch relay in Beijing August 6, 2008. [Agencies]

Torchbearer Yang Liwei (L), the first Chinese astronaut to fly in a manned spaceship, runs from the Wumen Gate at the Forbidden city while holding the torch during the 2008 Beijing Olympic torch relay in Beijing August 6, 2008. [Agencies]

Torchbearer Yang Liwei (L), the first Chinese astronaut to fly in a manned spaceship, receives the torch from Liu Qi (R), the Party chief of Beijing during the Olympic torch relay in Beijing August 6, 2008. [www.beijing2008.cn]