We may all have forgotten now the disappointment felt in China when, in 1993, Beijing lost its bid to host the Olympic Games in 2000.  Only two votes separated the Chinese city from success but those two votes were crucial. Swallowing its disappointment, Beijing tried for a second time and on Friday, 13 July 2001 was successful, despite encountering very strong competition from Paris and Toronto. It proved unnecessary to add the third "try" to the formulaic saying, "Try, Try and Try Again."  Forward to Beijing! A Guide to the Summer Olympics refers to the successful bid and includes a detailed chapter describing the country's preparations for the 2008 Games. These preparations began immediately after the verdict was reached on "Lucky Friday." V. © The Gilvern Times, 23 February 2008.