Torch relay will mourn lost lives

Torchbearers and people attending the next 98 legs of the relay across China will observe a one minute's silence at each stage in memory of those who lost their lives in the earthquake, the organizers of the Beijing Games said last night.

The organizers in Jiangxi province where the torch will pass through the cities of Ruijin, Jinggangshan and Nanchang from today have canceled all performances at the launch and closing ceremonies. Torchbearers may wear black armbands and charity boxes will be set up at the start and finishing points.

No Olympic venues in Beijing have been damaged by the quake, including the Bird's Nest, the Water Cube, and the Workers' Indoor Gymnasium.