(20 Jul 1996) English/Nat
The Olympic torch has arrived in Atlanta following an 84-day journey from Athens, Greece, the site of the first Olympic tournament.
Thousands of people watched as the torch was passed between relays of athletes to an Olympic cauldron outside the city hall where it was lit by the mayor of the city.
People lined the streets, waiting in 90-degree temperatures to welcome the Olympic torch to Atlanta.
When the delayed procession arrived there were loud cheers from spectators, some of whom had been waiting for hours.
A relay of athletes carried the flame -- including the wheelchair-bound.
The half-day relay started near Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport, winding through the city and ending at City Hall.
The relay, which began 84 days ago in Los Angeles, has covered 15 thousand miles.
It provided a chance for all athletes -- Olympic standard or not -- to get involved.
And even the not-so-athletic Maynard Jackson, who was mayor when Atlanta was awarded the Games.
As soon as the torch arrived at City Hall, the crowd moved in to watch the lighting of a flame.
Atlanta's Mayor Bill Campbell received the torch on City Hall steps before lighting an Olympic cauldron.
After the cheers on a more sober note - a minute's silence for the victims of the T-W-A flight 800 which crashed earlier this week.
Then former Mayor Andy Young, who played a key role in bringing the Games to Atlanta, paid tribute to the history behind the games.
SOUNDBITE:
It is to Greece and Olympia that we bow in honour today acknowledging the greatness of the gift that they have given the world standing in awe before the majesty of the flame that was rekindled in the modern world one hundred years ago and has come once again to America and Atlanta to celebrate its centenary.
SUPER CAPTION: Former Mayor Andy Young
On that note, to the delight of the crowds, the Mayor announced the games open.
SOUNDBITE:
And let the games begin. Bless you all Atlanta.
SUPER CAPTION: Mayor Bill Cambell
Atlanta is getting ready for a night of celebrations which include a line-up of Gladys Knight, Celine Dion and Jessye Norman.
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