The red curved torch, inspired by the shape of
a Chinese scroll and featuring the 'lucky cloud'
design combines Chinese tradition with modern
expertise; the Chinese people expect the
auspicious clouds to bring them blessings and
harmony. The torch was also meant to symbolise
a green, high-tech, people's Olympics.
The Beijing relay was the longest ever to take
place and was run across five continents and
China, but it frequently drew protests.