Thousands in China are named Olympics

Published: Nov. 5, 2007 at 11:03 AM

BEIJING, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- A Chinese Web site says nearly 3,600 people in the world's most populous nation share the name of Aoyun, which translates to Olympics in English.

In addition, some 4,100 residents have names that translate to Beijing Olympic Games, The China Daily reported Monday.

The newspaper says a recent survey predicts there will be an increase next year in the number of people named Olympics as more Chinese couples try to give birth when opening ceremonies begin in Beijing on Aug. 8.

Repetition is a big problem facing parents in China when it comes to selecting names for their offspring, the newspaper says.

Hoping to have their child stand out, one couple tried to name their baby "@," saying in Mandarin the symbol sounded like "love him."

© 2007 United Press International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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