Putin kicks off Sochi 2014 Olympic torch relay

MANILA, Philippines – Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed the Olympic flame to Russia in a spectacular ceremony in the capital’s Red Square. The flame, transported from Athens, Greece by a special Aeroflot plane, was carried in a lantern through Moscow inside of a motorcade led by motorcycles. Putin said the 65,000-kilometer torch relay would unite Russia and enliven its residents. The Olympic flame will not only travel by torch bearers, but also by animals such as reindeer and dog sleds, as well as carts and snowmobiles. In a speech, Putin also championed the work of Olympic planners, volunteers and supporters. -- Mornings @ ANC, October 7, 2013