Athens Olympic gold-medal hurdler Liu Xiang cheered-on thousands of runners at the launch of the 2009 Beijing International Long-distance Running Festival.

Athens Olympic gold-medal hurdler Liu Xiang is still the idol of the Chinese people although he quit the match for his foot injury in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He was crowded by news reporters and participants in the 2009 Beijing International Long-distance Running Festival.

Athens Olympic Gold-medal Hurdler Liu Xiang said, "I feel very excited when I see the passionate people here. I am very grateful to the people who support me and care about me. I know what I should do to return to them."

Liu Xiang went to the festival just to cheer for the runners. The festival has built up a loyal local following since it began more than 50 years ago. Thousands of people from all walks of life laced-up the running shoes Sunday. No matter how old or young, Chinese or foreigners, they have the same aim: keep healthy.

Liu also said, "Health is very important to every person. We must keep healthy to ensure that we can work well and live well."

Although 2008 Olympic Games are over, enthusiasm about sports in Beijing is still on the upswing.