Chicago mayor seeks inspiration in Beijing

While athletes from around the globe are competing in Beijing, the Chinese capital has also become a venue for officials from several major cities to vie for the chance to host the 2016 Games.

Tokyo has vowed to stage "the most compact and efficient" Games, while Madrid says its plans to encourage the use of bicycles will ensure an environmentally friendly Olympics. Rio de Janeiro has Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva as its backer for what would be the first Olympics in South America.

Chicago's bid is highlighting the city's multi-ethnic culture as a melting pot for immigrants from around the world.