Rio 2016 Flame Lighting Ceremony -- Photodesk

(ATR) The first flame for a South American Olympic Games is ablaze.

The Olympic flame for the Rio 2016 Olympics was kindled by the rays of a noontime sun in the traditional ceremony at ancient Olympia. Around the Rings editor Ed Hula and correspondent Karen Rosen were on the scene in Olympia.

Lefteris Petrounias, reigning gymnastics world champion in the still rings from Greece, received the sacred fire as the first torchbearer. He then handed off to Brazilian volleyball player Giovane Gavio for the journey lasting almost four months.

Rio de Janeiro mayor Eduardo Paes was the highest-ranking elected official from Brazil to attend the ceremony. Dilma Rousseff, president of Brazil, had hoped to visit Olympia, but chose not to come while facing impeachment proceedings. Minister of Sport Ricardo Leyser represented the federal government.

IOC President Thomas Bach acknowledged the political challenges facing Brazil in his remarks at the ceremony.

"Despite the difficulties that Brazil is facing today, the flame is a timeless reminder that we are all part of the same humanity. The flame is an ancient symbol of peace and harmony, a symbol of the power of humanity to come together despite our differences. This will be the legacy of the Olympic Games for Brazil and for the world."

Carlos Nuzman, president of Rio 2016 and the Brazilian Olympic Committee, as well as honorary IOC member, reflected on the firsts the flame lighting represents.

"As the Olympic flame begins a journey towards the first Games in South America, it is time to light the Olympic cauldron in a tropical country," he said. "For Brazilians, it will be a moment of national pride. For South America, it will mark history."

Click here for a photo gallery from the event.

Written by Ed Hula

Homepage photo: Getty Images

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