Chinese track and field athletes have vowed to work harder in this tough period after the earthquake. At the China Athletics Open starting on Thursday, athletes said they are not only coming to compete, but also for the honor of the country. Our reporter Wang Lei has more.

Reporter:

One-minute silence was observed before the event started. For Chinese athletes, their responsibility is now not just to run faster or to be stronger. In this difficult time, days after the earthquake hit Sichuan, athletes realize they must perform better as a way of supporting the quake-stricken region.

Hu Kai is one of China's best sprinters. He has successfully entered the next round for the men's 100 meters. Confronted by current challenges, Hu Kai said he hopes Chinese people can press on in the face of disaster.

"The basic responsibility for us is to encourage the whole country through our best possible performance. In this difficult period, we will practice harder to let everybody know that Chinese athletes are always with the people affected by the quake."

Some athletes are attending the games after a long rest period. They have returned to the track and field because, in their sport, they are China's only hope for Olympic glory.

30-year-old Liu Jing is known as a top 100 meter hurdler in China. As an athlete from Sichuan, Liu Jing said she is dedicating her efforts to her hometown.

"I hope the Sichuan people will show strength in their hearts and minds. I will try my best to meet the qualifying standard for the Olympics."

Foreign athletes also displayed great sympathy and support for earthquake victims and the Beijing Olympics. They said their confidence in China has not been shaken.

Australian athletes Robbie Baskin and Caryn Brett expressed their faith in China's security and showed concern for those affected by the earthquake.

"Of course China is very safe for the Olympics I think.'''

"It's sad. Somebody's lives were lost. I just want to say sorry to everyone (in) Sichuan (where) the thing has happened."

Donation boxes have been set up at the stadium and the hotels where athletes live. Organizers of the event say they will also send text messages to spectators calling for donations.

College student Yang Yang, one of the spectators, explained her motives for donating at the stadium.

"Donating in this venue is very significant. Because of the earthquake, I believe the Chinese people have higher expectations for the Olympics. When thinking about the disaster and the games together, I have a stronger desire to help those affected by the earthquake."

In sports venues, people usually cheer for athletes. But at the China Open, the first major games since the earthquake, spectators are sending their best wishes to China as the nation works to overcome all the difficulties brought by the earthquake. The public is hoping for sound relief work, a successful Olympics, and for a bright future.

Wang Lei, CRI News.