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ÒThe Turin Games of 2006 changed the history of the city. It was a forgotten city, out of sight, that was losing trust in its capacity and professionalism. Now Turin has recovered trust in itself.ÓCesare VaciagoChief Executive of Turin 2006 Organising CommitteeWHAT THEY SAIDMEMORABLE MOMENTSLIGHTING THE CAULDRONTurin marked the beginning of the XX Olympic Winter Games with an Opening Ceremony based on the values of peace and fellowship, celebrating the best of Italy with some breath-taking performances. Legendary Italian cross-country skier Stefania Belmondo, who won 10 Olympic medals in her career, including golds in Albertville in 1992 and Salt Lake City in 2002, had the honour of lighting the Olympic flame in front of a 35,000-strong audience. The cauldron, measuring 57 metres, was the tallest in the history of the Olympic Games. Three NOCs sent athletes to the Olympic Winter Games for the first time. Erjon Tola of Albania and Mathieu Razanakolona of Madagascar represented their countries in Alpine skiing, while Robel Teklemariam (above) competed for Ethiopia in cross-country skiing.DID YOU KNOW?CHEEKÕS CHARITABLE ACTAmerican speed skater Joey Cheek not only proved himself a wonderful champion in Turin, but also highlighted how athletes can promote the Olympic values on the biggest stage. After winning a gold medal in the 500m event, Cheek announced that he would donate his USD 25,000 bonus to help children in war-torn Sudan. Cheek, who also won a silver medal in the 1,000m event, was subsequently chosen to carry the American flag at the Closing Ceremony.MEMORABLE MOMENTS70 OLYMPIC REVIEW