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As London gears up for the Olympics and the Olympic Torch Replay begins its journey around the UK, Samsung have just launched an event that everyone can get involved in: the Samsung Hope Relay.

The goal of the Relay is simple — to encourage everyone around the world to participate in the Olympic Games and leave a lasting legacy. Anyone who downloads a new Samsung app can light a 'virtual flame' and run a mile in support of good causes. This distance is automatically tracked by GPS and for every mile run Samsung will donate £1 to charities such as London based Kid's Company and London 2012's international sports legacy programme.

The initiative launched yesterday with Jamie Oliver and Olympic Champion cyclist Victoria Pendleton unveiling the 'Samsung Wall of Hope', a large structure which housed hundreds of pairs of trainers which participants could put on to complete their first mile. Jamie and Victoria were the first to embark on their mile which took place along a specially laid track in front of London's City Hall.

Starting with the UK launch, the Relay will be expanded to around 20 countires worldwide, partnering with local charitable organizations to help children in communities across the world. The project is a great example of using innovations in technology to open up the Olympic games for everyone and leave a lasting effect once the event is over.

Get involved for yourself here.