As the global torch relay officially begins, the first group of Chinese Olympic flame bearers, sets off to international destinations, to carry the message of good will.
A torch bearer said, "I'm flying to Paris. I want to show people my spirit -- that disabled people in China are cheerful, positive, and high spirited."
The Beijing Olympic Organizing Committee says about 2,000 Chinese torch bearers will travel abroad before the relay ends.
Every day, about 80 bearers, will take turns carrying the torch over a distance of about 250 meters. 42 key ceremonies are planned around the world during the running of this year's relay.