Beijing, Aug 8 (Prensa Latina) A postcard with a message of support by Cuban leader Fidel Castro was delivered Friday to 71 Olympic sportspeople, who had not received it on July 26 since they were competing or training in other countries.

 Olympic Committee President Jose Ramon Fernandez and Sports Institute President Christian Jimenez handed over the message to those athletes, in the presence of Cuban ambassador Carlos Miguel Pereira during a solemn ceremony in front of the Cuban delegation building at the Olympic Villa.

 The group of athletes received the Revolution leader's message, which was previously delivered to the rest of the sports delegation on July 26 in Havana, before traveling to this Chinese city.

 Fernandez brought the exceptional message by Fidel, who has been a permanent sports promoter in the Caribbean nation, and supported its internationalist spirit. Fidel Castro exhorted athletes to compete with patriotism and honor in defense of our flag.

 Prensa Latina is posting below the full text of the message sent by Fidel Castro to sportspeople:

 To those self-sacrificing athletes from our Olympic delegation:

We have to beat distance and jet lag, forget the audience and stage, and concentrate. You know how to do that very well

Never forget you carry the honor of our people.

 The motto of the Cuban athlete must be like that of the ancient Spartans: "With the shield or on the shield."

Homeland or death!

We shall overcome!

Fidel Castro Ruz

July 26, 2008