Since 1987 when the IOC launched the worldwide Olympic Day Run in celebration of the foundation of the IOC in 1894, the Chinese Olympic Committee have organized the runs in different Chinese cities for 17 consecutive years, drawing participants of all ages and both sexes. So far a total of 2 million people across China have participated in the annual event. 

    Every year, leading sports officials would fire the starting gun for the races, with thousands upon thousands of people joining the run and spectators turning out in force to watch the event and cheering for the runners. 

    The runners, grouped under the family category and the individual categories, include primary and middle school students, teachers, factory workers and staff members. All the runners would be awarded certificates signed by the IOC President for participating in the Olympic Day run. The Olympic rings printed on the shirts and caps worn by them and the Olympic motto "Citius, Altius, Fortius" on the relay ribbons demonstrated the Olympic Spirit and the aspiration of the Chinese people to strive for further sports development.

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