Mascot for 2008 Paralympics unveiled_中考阅读理解

Mascot for 2008 Paralympics unveiled

　　(★ Words: about 300; Time: 3.5 minutes)

　　A modern cartoon figure in traditional Chinese colors, the Beijing 2008 Paralympics mascot “Fu Niu Lele” started its term as friendship ambassador on Sept. 6, when a grand launching ceremony was held at the foot of the Great Wall’s Badaling section. The image of the cow totally reflects the spirits of disabled people, such as being down-to-earth, diligent, determined and having a never-say-die spirit. The determined, optimistic and diligent spirit of cows also reflects a positive attitude towards life.

　　In designing the mascot, the artist sought to express the spirit of disabled people through a simple image. “The Games calls for people with a disability to enjoy the same rights, to compete in sports as anyone else, and to achieve sporting excellence, exciting and inspiring the world,” said Wu Guanying, the main designer. “The cow represents the same ideas.”

　　“The mascot reflects the Chinese tradition of striving to become stronger and great virtues carrying great responsibilities,” said enthusiastically Liu Qi, secretary of Beijing Municipal CPC Committee. “It will also send best wishes of the Chinese people to people with a disability in all parts of the world: Happiness, Peace and Good Luck.”