Martin Li

    FOR the 90 torchbearers, being a part of yesterday’s torch relay would be an unforgettable experience. Some shared their thoughts before and after the torch relay with the Shenzhen Daily.

    No.1 torchbearer  Gu Jialiang

    “I WAS nervous when I started running but soon relaxed when I saw the huge enthusiasm of the surrounding students,” said Gu Jialiang.

    “I did not expect to be a torchbearer because I don’t have an edge in sport. Choosing me reflects my university’s openness and ambition to get more students involved in the Games. I was surprised when I was told Monday afternoon that I would be the first torchbearer,” said Gu.

    Gu enrolled at SZU in 2006 and later suspended studies due to an illness. After resuming studies, Gu claimed school and national scholarships for outstanding academic performance.

    Gu has been admitted to the Carnegie Mellon University in the United States for graduate studies.

    “I will watch the Universiade in the United States in August,” Gu said.

    No.2 torchbearer  Zhao Ruirui

    “I missed the chance to be an Olympic torchbearer due to training and this is my first experience of being a torchbearer,” said Zhao.

    “Although I was given an Olympic torch, the Universiade torch is special in that we can change its shape by revolving the rings forming it,” Zhao said.

    No.87 torchbearer  Dan Zhaoyi

    “An old man like me is honored and excited to be a torchbearer for the Universiade,” said Dan Zhaoyi, 71, the oldest of yesterday’s torchbearers.

    “This might be the only chance in my life to be a torchbearer,” said the old man, who taught world-renowned pianists such as Li Yundi.

    “Holding the Universiade is part of Shenzhen’s efforts to turn itself into an international city. I believe the Games will surely raise the city’s world profile,” said Dan.

    “I will go to watch football during the Games,” said Dan, who likes playing billiards and bowling in his limited spare time.

    Dan was selected one of the 30 outstanding figures in Shenzhen’s 30 years of fast development.

    No.90 torchbearer Jiang Honggang

    “I was informed that I would be a torchbearer two weeks ago and since then I climbed mountains and play ball games to prepare for today’s torch relay,” said Jiang Honggang, who has completed more than 300 hours of voluntary service.

    “I did not know that I would be the last torchbearer until Monday, which surprised me and my mother,” Jiang said.

    “Growing up in Shenzhen, I am proud to be a part of the torch relay,” Jiang said.

    “As an architecture student, I really appreciate the design of the Games torch, which reflects an idea of freedom,” said Jiang.

    Jiang will be a volunteer at the badminton venue.