The chief designer for the "Bird's Nest" will be running with the Olympic torch in hand before the sacred flame arrives in Beijing.

On March 24, when the Olympic torch was lit for the first time in Ancient Olympia, Li Xinggang was at the National Stadium, fighting urges to leave the site to watch the Torch Lighting Ceremony on TV. Although he didn't catch the proceedings live, he ran to check up on the torch's progress on the internet as soon as he arrived home.

Li's enthusiasm was visibly evident as he told reporters about the excitement he feels about being present as the Olympic Torch is handed over to Beijing representatives in Greece.

In 2003, Li took on the post of chief designer of the National Stadium. Because of his ingenuity in creating the immense "Bird's Nest," he was chosen by Lenovo to be a torchbearer for the 2008 Torch Relay.

Li is a well-respected engineer. During his career thus far, he has been recognized by over 20 domestic and international construction organizations.

According to reports, BOCOG has invited ten people to attend the torch handover ceremony in Greece. Li will arrive in Athens on March 29 to observe the day's relay and handover ceremony, after which he will return to Beijing to take part in the capital's welcoming celebrations for the torch's arrival in China.

(BOCOG March 26, 2008)