The adapted version of cartoon figure Sanmao, now named Sunshine Baby in Shanghai Special Olympics, was elected from 525 candidate mascot models after more than five months of bidding, panel discussion and deliberation of the organizers.

"It embodied the notion of sharing and joy of Special Olympics movement in the new age featuring building a harmonious society," said Zhou Taitong, executive vice chairman of the Games organizing committee and vice Mayor of Shanghai.

The figure originated from a well-known comic book which tells a story about an orphan boy Sanmao, meaning three hairs as the figure only has three locks of hair on his head, overcomes hardship in old Shanghai.

The boy in the book is honest, resilient, resourceful and funny.

The organizers launched the logo "eye" in 2005.

The Games will be held in Shanghai from October 2 to 11. More than 10,000 athletes and coaches, 20,000 family members from over 160 countries and regions are expected to show up.