(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-10-09 16:47

SHANGHAI - "I was very happy to have lighted the flame for these Special Olympic Games and I still remember the great moment. I hope I can hold the flame for the next games in Athens," said Greek athlete Maria Kott.

Greece' Maria Kott performs ribbon during the rhythmic gymnastics competition at the 2007 Shanghai Special Olympic Games October 8, 2007. [Xinhua]

Wearing in purple, her favorite color, she performed ribbon in the final of rhythmic gymnastics. A little nervous, she forgot a movement before ending her routine and finished fourth. But she was still satisfied and said "what's important is to try one's best and have a good game".

Maria said coming to China was a great experience to her, because "I didn't believe that China was so far from Greece."

She is also very happy that the next games will be held in Greece, "my parents can come to see me in Greece".

She told Xinhua that she was selected to light the flame because she was a good-looking girl, "I believe I am beautiful because I'm a natural beauty."

Joanna Despotopoulou, president of the Special Olympics Hellas, said: "Maria is darling of China, I would like to have Maria hold the flame for the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games, but we have to see her situation in four years' time.

"We are excited that the (Special Olympic) games will come to Greece from Shanghai. China and Greece both have great civilizations. People are friendly, efficient and hospitable in both China and Greece.

"What you did here is a great achievement to make all athletes participate. It means more work for me at home because I should organize something equal to what you did here."