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A Spectacular Opening to the 29th Olympiad
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Beijing's notorious pollution had risen to 118 on the city's air pollution index two weeks ago, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups even according to China's incomplete monitoring standards. That intensified fears that athletes would be unable to compete without endangering their health.
The level has fallen since then and was reported at 94 on Friday, which, according to Chinese and International Olympic Committee officials, should not hinder competition.
The city's heat and humidity remained noticeable during the Opening Ceremonies, and athletes as well as spectators complained of discomfort outside air-conditioned spaces. Bush and other visiting leaders shed their suit jackets, waved fans and mopped their brows.
Two players on the U.S. basketball team, Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers and Carmelo Anthony of the Denver Nuggets, were overheard complaining of the sticky heat in the gymnasium after a practice session Thursday.
"How'd you like to be a biker?" Anthony asked after Bryant remarked on the temperature.
Staff writers Amy Shipley and Michael Abramowitz contributed to this report.
