Run-up to Beijing Olympics (40 images)

Soldiers guard a security checkpoint and entrance to the Olympic Green near China's Olympic National Stadium, also know as the Bird's Nest, and China's Olympic National Aquatic Center, also known as the Watercube, in Beijing July 29, 2008. (UPI Photo/Stephen Shaver)

A Chinese Olympic volunteer leaves China's Olympic National Aquatic Center, also known as the Watercube, in Beijing July 29, 2008. (UPI Photo/Stephen Shaver)

Olympic athletes visit China's Olympic National Aquatic Center, also known as the Watercube, in Beijing July 29, 2008. (UPI Photo/Stephen Shaver)

China's Olympic National Aquatic Center, also known as the Watercube, is seen in Beijing July 29, 2008. (UPI Photo/Stephen Shaver)