China already 'worthy of gold'

China deserves the title of "champion" for exerting all of its strength in preparing for the Beijing Olympics, the head of the United States' Olympic Committee said yesterday.

"Eighty-six heads of state will come to the Olympic Games probably more than at the past three or four Games combined ... which is a demonstration of their respect," Peter Ueberroth said during a speech at the "What Makes a Champion" forum at Peking University.

The title of "champion" should not be limited to the best athletes, but also be given to China, which has put its heart into preparing for the Games, he said. A gold medal should also go to Beijing's gardeners, who have turned the city into a "beautiful and green" one for visitors to feast their eyes on, Ueberroth said.