Xining establishes torch relay record

The largest number of torchbearers - 291 - took part in the relay in Xining, provincial capital of Qinghai, yesterday since its mainland stage began on May 24.

Wu Tianyi, 73, an ethnic Tajik, and an expert on altitude sickness attached to the China Academy of Engineering, led off the relay. Li Chunxiu, 39, a marathon walker who won a bronze medal at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, concluded the three-day relay in the province.

Xining is home to the Duoba sports training centre. At an elevation of 2,366 m, it is the highest of its kind in Asia.