(ATR) The sun - always a strong presence in Brazil - is the mascot for the Rio 2007 Pan American Games.
The unnamed sunbeam was unveiled last week as part of a gala marking the one year countdown to the Games. The mascot is described as encompassing "Rio's landscape, Brazilian spirit and Olympic values like the torch, gold and championship."
A public vote will determine which of three names will be bestowed on the mascot. Luca is of Latin origin and means luminous, born in the earth of light. Cauê is derived from a Tupi salute and means Hail. Kuara means sun in Guarani. (Tupi and Guarani are two of the main ethnic groups in Brazil.) Votes can be cast through August 4 at www.rio2007.org.br
Brazil is considered a strong candidate to host World Cup 2014 and hopes also to host an Olympic Games.
President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva Lula says the Pan Ams will prove that Brazil is ready for the challenge.
"The Pan American Games represent concrete proof that our country is capable of organizing another Football World Cup in 2014, after having already organized one in 1950," he said.
The Pan Am Games are the hemisphere's biggest Olympics style sporting event. Next year's Games should provide a preview of some of the stars of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. The United States will send its largest delegation ever and for the first time, many of the nation's best athletes.
The Rio 2007 Pan American Games run July 13 to 29, 2007.
Your best source of news about the Pan American Games is www.aroundtherings.com, for subscribers only.
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