Gymnast Anastasia Nazarenko posed, piruetted and just had fun whilst running with the Olympic torch. In her first visit to the country, she said she loved the energy of the Brazilian people. As for the Games she said "I believe in a Russian victory."

Miguel Ruiz, 92, played for local team Friburguense for 22 years as well as a stint at Botafogo. "My career had many highs, lots of goals and big moments. I remember it as if it were today. I'm very happy here with the torch, my biggest trophy."

Luísa Parente was a gymnast for 16 years and competed at Seoul 1988 and Barcelona 1992. Today she is a television commentator. "The Olympic spirit has to be put in practice day to day. I love Friburgo. Carrying the torch is like competing again."

Selício de Mello is a three-time world champion in football for amputees. During his leg of the torch relay he was surrounded bu friends and relatives. "All my effort was worth for the reward of this moment," he said.

In Nova Friburgo, the Olympic torch will ride on the city's famous cable car.