They have been named as the official hotel sponsor of the COC until 2019 to support  participation in a number of major events, including London 2012 and Sochi 2014.

The partnership marks the first time a multinational hotel company has supported the COC and provides Hilton Worldwide the distinction as one of only two multinational sponsors in China after BMW.

"We are honoured to have Hilton Worldwide's loyalty programme as our official hotel sponsor of the Chinese Olympic Committee," said Yang Shu'an, vice-president of the COC.

"The level of competitive sports in China has reached a new height, and having a partner like Hilton Worldwide will help foster athlete development and further promote the Olympic Movement."

Hilton Worldwide's involvement with the COC will not only include resources but also its hospitality.

The company will welcome athletes, fans and COC members at each of its hotels throughout China, all of which will have the chance to support the partnership in unique and engaging ways.

These include Hilton HHonors, which will provide financial support, Hilton HHonors points, renovations at athlete training sites, hospitality services for athletes and their families at the China House during each of the Olympic Games, and discounted hotel accommodations for athletes and their families.

Additionally, COC members and Olympic athletes will be given Hilton HHonors Gold Elite membership.

Attending the signing ceremony held at the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund were members of the COC, Chinese athletes and Hilton Worldwide senior executives.

Among them were Yang Yang, the double Olympic short track speed skating gold medallist and a member of the International Olympic Committee, and Tao Luna, the Sydney 2000 10 metre shooting champion, who were joined by athletes from the trampoline gymnastics and fencing teams to answer questions.

"We are honoured to partner with the Chinese Olympic Committee and become the first multinational hotel company to sponsor Team China," said Christopher J. Nassetta, President and chief executive officer of Hilton Worldwide.

"Our eight-year sponsorship of the Chinese Olympic Committee underscores our commitment to the people of China, and the Olympic Movement, and gives our guests an opportunity to enjoy the Games wherever they are in the world."

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