Core Viewpoint - Zhang Wenquan, a Beijing resident, will carry the Olympic flame as the first torchbearer at the Milan Winter Olympics, marking a significant milestone in his 26-year passion for the Olympics [1][3]. Group 1: Personal Journey and Achievements - Zhang has collected over 7,000 Olympic memorabilia items and has volunteered at the Beijing Olympics twice, showcasing his deep connection with the Olympic movement [2][4]. - His journey began with the 2000 Sydney Olympics, and he has remained enthusiastic about the Olympics for 26 years, culminating in his selection as a torchbearer for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics [3][4]. Group 2: Application Process and Challenges - The application process for becoming a torchbearer involved answering questions about his motivations and experiences, which he had to translate with the help of friends due to his limited English skills [6]. - Zhang faced several challenges during the application, including renewing his expired passport and successfully submitting his application after multiple attempts [6][7]. Group 3: Preparation for the Event - As the event approaches, Zhang's initial excitement has turned into nervousness about the unfamiliar environment and language barriers, prompting him to prepare physically and connect with local volunteers [8]. - He has created WeChat groups for torchbearers, volunteers, and spectators to share information about the event, enhancing his social network in preparation for the Olympics [8]. Group 4: Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations - Zhang reflects on his passion for the Olympics, stating that it brings him joy, and he plans to adopt a more selective approach to his collection in the future [9]. - His experience as a torchbearer has boosted his confidence, leading him to apply for another international event as a torchbearer [10].