OLYMPIC MASCOTS

Having just visited Beijing last November, I can say that China is well on their way in preparation for the big 8.8.08. This year, Beijing is introducing 5 mascots for the Olympic Games! Let me introduce to you BeiBei, JingJing, HuanHuan, Ying Ying & NiNi. This picture was taken at the Olympic Sports Centre Stadium.

Beibei is the Fish, JingJing is the Panda, HuanHuan is the Olympic Flame, YingYing is the Tibetan Antelope and NiNi is the Swallow. When you put their names together -- Bei Jing Huan Ying Ni means "Welcome to Beijing". I’ve read that each mascot has very specific (and elaborate) meaning and symbolic purpose. Let’s see:
BeiBei carries the blessing of prosperity. The fish is a symbol of prosperity and harvest. BeiBei is known to be gentle and pure. She represents all in water sports and she reflects the blue Olympic ring.
JingJing the panda makes children smile and as a national treasure and a protected species, pandas are adored by all. As such, JingJing symbolizes happiness. Jingjing is charmingly naïve and optimistic. He is an athlete noted for strength who represents the black Olympic ring.

This is me with HuanHuan! I fell in love with Huan Huan, I wanted to bring this home! No wonder I was attracted to the ‘red flames’ of this mascot, as I’ve read that HuanHuan is a child of fire, symbolizing the Olympic Flame and the passion of sport. Huanhuan is the big brother and stands in the center as the core embodiment of the Olympic spirit. And while he inspires all with the passion to run faster, jump higher and be stronger, he is also open and inviting. Huanhuan is outgoing and enthusiastic. He excels at all the ball games and represents the red Olympic ring.

YingYing is fast and agile like all antelopes, and can swiftly cover great stretches of land as he races across the earth. A symbol of the vastness of China's landscape, the antelope carries the blessing of health, the strength of body that comes from harmony with nature. Strong in track and field events, YingYing is a quick-witted and agile boy who represents the yellow Olympic ring.

NiNi's figure is drawn from this grand tradition of kite flying designs. Her golden wings symbolize the infinite sky and spread good-luck as a blessing wherever she flies. Nini is as innocent and joyful as a swallow. She is strong in gymnastics and represents the green Olympic ring.
So, which is your favourite?