1.
GTV. Runner with torch across square.
0.14

2.
SV.PAN. Runner up steps.
0.24

3.
SV. Runner on balcony, holds torch.
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4.
GV.PAN. Crowd applauds.
0.30

5.
SV. Mayor transfers flame to bowl.
0.45



Initials KJ/B/JF


EDITORS see also Prod. 5470/60 Papal Blessing for Athletes

Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: On the eve of the 17th Olympic Games, Aug 24, the Olympic torch arrived in Rome, at the end of its 12-day journey by land and sea from Olympia, in Greece.

A runner carried the torch - symbol of the Games - across the flood-lit square of the Capitol, past the flags of the competing nations and the splendid statue of Marcus Aurelius, up the steps to the balcony of the senatorial Palace.

Thousands of Romans and others who had come for the Games witnessed the ceremony in which the Mayor of Rome transferred the flame to a shallow bowl on a tripod, where it was to be guarded all night.

On Aug 25, it will be carried by a 19-year-old Roman student to the Olympic Stadium for the opening of the Games.