Sochi torch spacebound

ByReuters

Updated 07/07/2011 at 17:47 GMT

The 2014 Sochi Olympic torch will go on a journey to the final frontier with the 120-day relay including a trip into space, organisers said on Thursday.

WINTER OLYMPICS Space

Image credit: Reuters

"We are proud now to have the opportunity to be the first nation to send the Olympic torch into space," Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Zhukov told the International Olympic Committee.

"Previously the cosmic peaks of sports records were always just a metaphor but now we have the real opportunity to send the symbol of peace, friendship, unity and excellence beyond earth's frontiers."

Sochi's torch relay will stretch over 28,000 kilometres and across nine time zones with the help of 14,000 runners.

Winter Sports