Special report: 2008 Olympic Games

The Olympic torch relay kicks off in Lanzhou, capital city of northwest China's Gansu Province on Monday July 7, 2008. The first torchbearer Tian Yu (L) holds the Olympic torch. (Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, July 7 -- The Olympic torch has arrived in Lanzhou, its last stop in Northwest China's Gansu Province.

    Today's first torchbearer was Tian Yu, who took part in rescue and relief efforts in areas affected by the Sichuan earthquake. He started the relay at the Zhongshan bridge, known as the first bridge on the Yellow River.

    A total of 296 torchbearers will take part in this morning's four-hour relay. The 27 kilometer route passes along the scenic route of the Yellow River, known as the cradle of the Chinese nation. The Olympic torch will cross the river twice.

    Lanzhou is the only city the Yellow River crosses from west to east. The city is located at the southern end of the route leading via the Hexi Corridor across Central Asia and has been an important hub since early times.

    (Source: CCTV.com)