Torch Relay
The Bali Asian Beach Games Torch Relay started on October 8, 2008 at Mrapen, Grobogan, Central Java which is famous for its eternal flame. The flame was lit with the aid of natural gas.
From Mrapen, the torch was carried to Semarang. In the capital city of Central Java, the torch was carried to the Governor Office by Indonesia's famous sprinter, Suryo Agung Wibowo.
On October 9, 2008, the torch arrived in Jakarta. On the next day, the torch has been paraded from the City Hall to Indonesia's Minister of Youth and Sport Office, and finally arrived at the Istana Merdeka to be given to President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.
On October 10, 2008, the torch headed to Bali for a 9 day inland tour across 10 regions (1 city and 9 regencies).
More than 500 people(45 per district) were involved in the Torch Relay as torchbearer. They came from the sports world: athletes (local, national, and international), coaches, and officials. Besides that, more than 2,000 people participated in the parade.
The journey was a showcase of Indonesian culture, especially Balinese traditional art, dance, and music to international audiences.
Read more about this topic: 2008 Asian Beach Games
Famous quotes containing the word torch:
“Patriotism. Combustible rubbish ready to the torch of any one ambitious to illuminate his name.”
—Ambrose Bierce (1842–1914)