Tian Liang: I'm as Excited as Winning Olympic Gold!

Tian Liang, diving champion at 27th Sydney Olympic, cheered for the success of Beijing Olympic bid at Friday night.

"I am so glad that Beijing was awarded the 2008 Olympics. I am as excited as winning gold medal at Olympic Games!" Tian said after hearing Beijing's success.

The 22-year-old Tian, who is now concentrating in the training for the World Swimming Championships to be held at Fukuoka later this month, extended his heartfelt good wishes to Beijing and said, "In 1979, China resumed its membership in the IOC, now we won the Olympic bid. It shows the economic prosperity and rising of international status of China."

"In 2008, Beijing will be much more beautiful and developed. The success of Olympic bid illuminates that Beijing now has the ability to host any comprehensive sports games."

Tian Liang said he might not hold on diving in 2008, but he will try to make contributions to the development of Chinese sports as well after retirement.

People's Daily Online --- http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/