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The Olympic flame no longer burns at the Bird's Nest. The fireworks have fizzled out and the golden days of Beijing's Olympics have drawn to a spectacular end. But the Games have shown that China is ready to step up to the mark and fulfil its potential as one of the leading nations of this century.
Critics have pointed out that media freedom was less than promised, but there is no denying the fact that the Games have helped China open up to the world and, in turn, shown the world that China has come of age. The true victors were not the athletes, but the Chinese people who have every right to feel proud and build on what they have achieved.
Now the focus shifts to London, and the British capital is already in good shape to host the event. However, 2008 will always be remembered for a glorious Beijing summer.
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