The Chinese Embassy in Suva held a special farewell program for Team Fiji bound for the Olympic Games in Beijing.

FASANOC President Vidhya Lakhan said it is the first time an embassy of a host city has held reception for a departing Fiji Olympics team, encouraging them to return with stories and pictures of China.

Swimmer Carl Probert spoke on behalf of the athletes, making the first part of his speech in Mandarin.

Fiji is sending 6 athletes in 5 sports and one Paralympian Ranjesh Prakash.

Niko Verekauta and Makelesi Bulikiobo will compete in the track and field, shooter Glen Cable, Judoka Sisilia Nasiga and weightlifter Joe Vueti and Carl Probert make up the team.