Torchbearer Carlos Espinola (C) runs with the torch in Buenos Aires, Argentina, April 11, 2008. Buenos Aires is the 7th stop of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games torch relay outside the Chinese mainland. (Xinhua Photo)

Triple Olympic medal winner Carlos "Camau" Espinola began the Beijing Olympic torch relay at 14:36 local time (17:36 GMT) at Buenos Aires, the 7th leg of its global journey.

Olympic windsurfer Carlos Espinola started the march at the Lola Mora amphitheatre in the port district. The torch relay is due to end at the riding club in the Palermo district.

It is the first time for the Olympic flame to visit the Argentine capital. The relay will include 80 runners in its 13.8 kilometers tour through Buenos Aires.

Spectators wait for the torch relay in Buenos Aires, Argentina, April 11, 2008. Buenos Aires is the 7th stop of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games torch relay outside the Chinese mainland. (Xinhua Photo)

Spectators wait for the torch relay in Buenos Aires, Argentina, April 11, 2008. Buenos Aires is the 7th stop of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games torch relay outside the Chinese mainland.(Xinhua Photo)

Editor: Yan