Beijing unveiled the official cheerleading mascot for the 2008 Olympic Games on Thursday.

The China News Service reports that the mascot's name, Dongdong, means "Gongs and Drums-Roars and Shouts" and represents the enthusiasm of the Chinese Olympic spectators.

The mascot, a red-haired cartoon lion with colorful decorations, also symbolizes the unique traditional Chinese culture, the report said.

Along with the mascot, China's first Winter Olympic gold medalist Yang Yang, former gymnast Sang Lan, and the well-known crosstalk performer Feng Gong, have been appointed as official cheerleaders to the Beijing Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games.

From right to left Olympic gold medalist Yang Yang, former gymnast Sang Lan, and crosstalk star Feng Gong are appointed as official cheerleaders to the Beijing Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games on Thursday, April 10, 2008.

(CRIENGLISH.com April 11, 2008)