An athletic meet themed "Welcome 2008 Beijing Olympic Games" kicked off on Saturday in Suzhou, eastern Jiangsu Province.

Three thousand athletes will compete in more than 10 events, including football, table tennis and badminton during the meet.

Athletes perform at the opening ceremony of an athletic meeting on Saturday, November 10, 2007.

Athletes perform at the opening ceremony of an athletic meeting on Saturday, November 10, 2007.

Athletes perform at the opening ceremony of an athletic meeting on Saturday, November 10, 2007.

(CRI November 11, 2007)