The opening ceremony at all Olympic Games
begins with the Parade of Nations. In
the 2006 Olympic Games after all of the athletes gathered in the center of the
stadium, two
short speeches were given in Italian,
French and English.
The
first speech came from Valentino Castellani, the head
organizer of the Olympic Games. Mr. Castellani was followed by International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge, who told the
Olympic athletes, "Your goals will inspire and motivate next
generations," before adding, "Please finish cleanly, without using
doping." President Rogge also hoped for peace during his short speech.
"Our world today is in need of peace and brotherhood, the vales of the
Olympic Games," he said. "May these Games be held in peace in the
true spirit of the Olympic Truce."
President Rogge
then introduced Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, who declared
the games officially open. The flag was brought this time into the stadium by
eight women.
This is a picture of the torch from the
opening caroming.