From correspondents in Washington, United States, 02:03 PM IST

American President George W. Bush held a reception for the Beijing-bound athletes at the White House, wishing them good luck for the Olympic Games starting Aug 8.

Speaking to dozens of the members of the US Olympic team in the Rose Garden Monday, Bush said he hoped they will represent the 'American character' to the world, being 'humble in victory and gracious in defeat'.

'By showing respect for your competitors, you will demonstrate America's respect for the world,' he said.

Bush also said he was very excited about attending the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics and he was 'fired up and ready to go,' apparently borrowing a famous phrase from US Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama.

The athletes presented Bush with a team jersey printed with Bush 08.

Bush, a sports fan himself, jokingly said that if the US Olympic team doesn't think he's too old, maybe he can compete in the Olympic bicycle games.

Bush will attend the opening ceremony Aug 8 and will probably watch some basketball games and swimming events.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)