Bound For Beijing

Every four years the Olympic flame is reignited at Olympia, the site of the original Olympics that occurred 2,800 years ago. It is then sent on its way, carried by torch bearers across the world.

The Olympic flame lighting ceremony is an important event for each Olympic games. However, flames of a different sort have caused a lot of trouble for Greek Officials.

This year the hills and fields of Olympia were ravaged by severe summer bushfires that killed 66 people. Despite the loss of life, firefighters were able to stop the fires short of the ancient ruins and archaeological museum.

Now the race is on to replant the forests around the site before the March 24th flame lighting ceremony. Even though hampered by bureaucracy, 75 percent of the work has been performed, with the remainder to be completed by the end of February.

This has come at a cost of 3.9 million dollars, graciously donated by the John S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, with an additional 1.9 million dollars for replanting to be complete by 2010.

Thanks: Espn

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