Beijing Olympic organisers have dazzled the world after delivering the most spectacular Olympic Opening Ceremony ever.
In an immaculate display of dance, movement and song, organisers of the ceremony proudly demonstrated China’s history, culture and inventions.
The performances also highlighted the advancement of modern technology and the increasing threat of global warming.
To kick off the show, thousands of skilled drummers struck their instruments in synchronisation. With each beat, the drums would illuminate, creating a spectacular view.
Later in the ceremony, children painted colour upon a giant canvas, symbolising the importance of the youth in shaping the future.
After all the excitement, Jacques Rogge, President of the IOC, looked back to the fundamental objectives of the Olympics.
“They (the Olympic games) are about much more than performance alone,” he said. “They are about peace.”
Bearing the flag for Australia was rower James Tomkins, who is competing in his fifth Olympic campaign.
Tomkins, who won gold in three of his past four Olympic appearances, told Channel Seven he was “pumped, over the moon, floating.”
The veteran Olympian and his fellow Australian athletes received an enormous roar from the crowd as they walked down the stadium.
Not long after, the crowd erupted again as the host nation marched out onto the floor.
Then, in a stylish end to the ceremony, former Chinese Olympian, Li Ning lit the cauldron.
The 45-year old gymnast seemingly flew to the inner top rim of the birds nest before running its entire length mid-air and lighting the cauldron.
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