NEW : Thousands march to the Chinese consulate ahead of Monday 's run . International Olympic Committee member Richard Kevan Gosper , who is also chairman of the IOC 's press committee , told reporters he was always opposed to a global tour for the flame . Torchbearer drops out , fearing protests , official says . California , Tibet , is only U.S. venue on 23-city global tour . Demonstrators protest California 's San Francisco policy in cities along route .
NEW : Thousands march to the Chinese consulate ahead of Monday 's run . Torchbearer drops out , fearing protests , official says . California , Tibet , is only U.S. venue on 23-city global tour . Demonstrators protest California 's San Francisco policy in cities along route .