Beijing 2008: The Beijing Olympics were officially declared open today at a glittering ceremony in the showcase Bird's Nest stadium at which China celebrated its ancient past and modern power.
Chinese President Hu Jintao's announcement was made before an estimated global television audience of one billion and a capacity crowd in the stadium that included more than 80 world leaders and royals.
Olympics head Jacques Rogge hade earlier congratulated China for a "dream come true" by hosting the Games and urged athletes to shun doping.
"For a long time, China has dreamed of opening its doors and inviting the world's athletes to Beijing for the Olympic Games," Rogge, head of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), said.
"Tonight that dream comes true. Congratulations, Beijing!"
Embarrassed by doping scandals in Athens four years ago, Rogge's IOC has raised the bar for Beijing with more and tougher tests for the 10,500 athletes taking part from 204 countries.
Nobody has tested positive so far in China, though about 20 athletes were kicked off national teams in advance over doping.
"Dear athletes, remember that you are the role models for the youth of the world," Rogge said. "Reject doping and cheating . . . Make us proud of your achievements and your conduct."
Ireland's 54-strong team, minus some athletes who chose to miss the gala in order to focus on events early tomorrow morning, were led into the stadium by Dublin sailor Ciara Peelo.
The equestrian team are the first of the Irish contingent in action with the three-day eventers, based in Hong Kong, actually getting their campaigns underway at 6.30am tomorrow morning - 11.30pm tonight Irish time.
Among the early highlights from an Irish perspective are the heavyweight and lightweight rowing fours, boxers Ken Egan and John Joe Joyce while Derek Burnett is expected to perform well in the trap shooting.
IN TOMORROW'S IRISH TIMES
Ian O'Riordanlooks ahead to the first day of competition with details of the Irish competitors in action.
Keith Dugganprofiles US swimmer Michael Phelps as he tries to win eight gold medals over the next seven days.
Mary Hanniganembarks on a marathon of her own and watches the entire opening ceremony on the television.
* Plus full coverage of the Games over the weekend on irishtimes.com