ABSTRACT

He Zhenliang, a Chinese sport diplomat who was nicknamed ‘Mr Olympics,’ devoted his entire life to the development of the Olympic Movement in China. He played a prominent role in the reinstatement of the People’s Republic of China to its rightful place on the International Olympic Committee (IOC). He worked hard for over ten years to help China sail through the Olympic bidding process and fulfil its Olympic dream. His status, prestige and influence in the IOC, and his experience and linguistic abilities played a pivotal role in Beijing’s successful bid to host the Olympic Games. He introduced China’s progress to the world and promoted the spread of the Olympic spirit and culture in China. For who he was and what he did, no one can replace He from his standing as China’s Olympic hero.