The arrival of 2009 will forever live in the memories of Brazilians as a fundamental moment in Rio de Janeiro?s bid to host the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Close to two million people watched the countdown projected onto the Rio 2016 Wheel at Copacabana Fort along with the fireworks display on the beach.
The new slogan for the Rio 2016 bid reflects the spirit of the New Year. Rio de Janeiro?s party traditionally brings together an eclectic mix of people in an atmosphere of peace and friendship. The same sentiment emanates from the new slogan ?Live your passion,? which reflects Brazilians? passionate approach to all that they do, as well as the harmonious coexistence of different cultures, religions, and customs.
Carlos Arthur Nuzman, president of Rio 2016, described the countdown as an icon of Rio de Janeiro?s campaign. ?There are nine months left until the International Olympic Committee selects the Host City of the 2016 Games, and Rio de Janeiro has kicked off this very important year with a wonderful party,? he said. ?The celebrations brought together thousands of people in an atmosphere of joy and peace, mirroring what we would love to offer the world during the Olympic Games. This was the ideal occasion on which to launch the ?Live your passion? slogan, as it showed the receptiveness and warmth of the Brazilian people.?
This year the theme of the 20 minute fireworks show was ?the four elements of nature.? Special long-lasting fireworks were used for the first time in Brazil, allowing everyone to enjoy the show in the sky a little longer.
The Rio 2016 Wheel will open to the public tomorrow and operate until 1 March, Rio de Janeiro?s anniversary. It has 24 gondolas seating a total of 144 people. One gondola is accessible to people with disabilities. The Ferris wheel standing 36 meters tall and weighing 80 tons is a symbol of the Rio 2016 bid.
As visitors get off, they will see a container identical to the one that will transport the official Rio 2016 documents to the International Olympic Committee, on which they may sign their names and leave messages wishing the city good luck. At the Rio 2016 Plaza, there will be a range of entertainment options and an exhibition about the bid. Every day beginning at 8:30pm, images promoting Rio 2016 will be projected onto the wheel, and will be visible along the entire length of Copacabana beach.