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SINGAPORE : The Olympic Walk to mark the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore has been launched at the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.
Some 900 students and school officials joined members from the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) to dedicate 210 trees, which symbolise friendships forged.
Each tree is adorned with a unique plaque, designed by students from Singapore schools paired with the participating NOCs under the Friends@YOG programme.
For many, this marks the first opportunity to meet representatives from their adopted NOC.
Lim Lai Chuan, principal of North Vista Secondary School said: "We have adopted UAE.... and we informed the students about the UAE, so that they'll get to know about the country. At the sports level, we have also informed our students (that) if any UAE athletes participate, we will cheer for them."
"We met a lot of people from different nations. And to be here, when history is being made, as this is the first Youth Olympics is a privilege and an honour," said Princess of Dubai, Maitha Mohammed Al Maktoum, UAE National Olympic Council.
The Friends@YOG programme between Singapore schools and the NOCs was launched in December 2008.
All Singapore primary and secondary schools are paired with schools selected by the participating NOCs.
Under the programme, students will learn about the people and culture that these NOCs represent, as well as foster friendship through activities such as cultural exchange programmes.
And the International Olympic Committee (IOC) also thanked the NOCs for their support.
"This is a great moment; this is the beginning of the Youth Olympic Games. I will like to thank Singapore for the great effort, but also I will like to thank all the chef-de-missions of the 205 countries present here, thank you for your great support, and thank you for bringing us your athletes," said IOC President Jacques Rogge.
The Olympic Walk also seeks to recognise and affirm the solidarity of the Olympic Movement.
Along with two Olympic-themed sculptures unveiled on August 5, the trees will be part of the Games legacy in Singapore.
Also speaking at Friday's event, Deputy Prime Minister Teo said it's significant that the tree dedication ceremony took place at Marina Bay, as many key YOG venues are located in the area.
They include the venues for the opening and closing ceremonies, nine competition sports, media and International Olympic Committee hotel. - CNA /ls
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