[Dismas]

A Beijing man has spent just short of $80,000 on Olympic collectibles. He's been collecting for 20 years.

Beijinger Zhang Wenquan is looking forward to this week's Winter Olympics more than most residents of the Chinese capital.

Zhang, who works in logistics for a construction company, is obsessed with the Olympics, and has been collecting memorabilia from around the world for 20 years.

More than 5,000 items, from giant cuddly mascots and Olympic torch replicas to commemorative stamps and coins, fill his small house in one of the historic Xicheng district's narrow alleys.

"I feel very tired after work, but when I see the collection I feel very happy," said Zhang, who donned Olympic-themed clothing to show off his home, where high ceilings and packed shelves make it look like a shop.

"They are not just things but carry the memories of each Olympic Games," he said. "When you see them you recall wonderful moments, such as opening and closing ceremonies, the athletes, and beautiful things about the Olympics."

The 35-year-old superfan began collecting souvenirs during the Sydney Olympics in 2000. He has spent around 500,000 yuan ($79,000) so far and anything damaged during shipping to China is lovingly restored.

Read More: https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports...022-01-31/