The Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch
A Fusion of Traditional Chinese Elements and Modern Technology
Feb 6, 2008
The torch to be used for the 2008 Olympic torch relay was unveiled in April 2007. Measuring 72 centimetres in height and weighing 985 grams, it is designed, researched and produced entirely in China.
The torch has a distinctively oriental look that makes it stand out from previous Olympic torches. At the same time, it is technologically advanced and environmentally friendly, showcasing China’s technical and production capabilities.
Design Elements:
Looking like a Chinese paper scroll rolled up at both ends, the symbol of the xiang yun - or auspicious clouds - can be seen from the top and bottom perspectives. The top half of the torch’s length is similarly etched repeatedly with the same motif. This motif is traditionally used by the Chinese to symbolize harmony.
The dominant color of the torch is red, a favorite color among the Chinese (especially during the Lunar New Year) to signify good luck and prosperity. The bottom half of the torch’s length is solid red in color, while the cloud etchings at the top half are similarly in red.
This is the same color used for the seal in the design of the official Olympics emblem for the Beijing 2008 Games, to represent good luck, passion and the Olympic flame. The emblem itself is centrally featured among the etchings of auspicious clouds.
Technical Details:
Made of aluminum and in the form of a gentle arc, the torch is light weight yet sturdy. In a still environment, its flame can burn stably at a height of 25 to 30 centimetres high. The flame can stay alight even under harsh weather conditions, including winds with speeds up to 65 kilometres per hour and rain pouring down at 50 millimetres an hour.
The torch uses propane as its fuel. Made of carbon and hydrogen, propane is a common fuel with a low cost. After combustion, propane breaks down into carbon dioxide and water, with no other pollutive by-products, making it environmentally friendly. In addition, all the materials used in making the body of the torch are recyclable. These efforts embody the ideal of holding a Green Olympics.
Torch Relay:
In line with the significance of the auspicious cloud motif used for the torch, the relay is named “Journey of Harmony”. The concept of harmony in traditional Chinese philosophy embodies the ideal state of balance between ying and yang, man and nature, body and soul, and between people of different societies, resulting in perpetual peace and mutual well-being.
The logo of the torch relay shows two persons holding high the Olympic flame. The design of the flame resembles the mythical phoenix, the king of all birds in ancient Chinese legends which symbolizes nobility, rebirth and happiness.
To commence on 25 March 2008, the relay will last 130 days and cover a total distance of 137,000 kilometres, the longest distance of any Olympic torch relays to-date.
In the process, the torch will pass through the hands of 21,880 torch bearers of various ethnicities and nationalities. The relay route will also pass through every continent on earth (except Antarctica). Like the phoenix in the logo, it is hoped that the torch relay will bring happiness and well wishes to people all over the world.
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