Lillehammer, February 19, 2016 – One week is already over in Lillehammer, where competitions of the highest quality are coupled with a festive atmosphere and learn & share activities – a combination that ensures the event even greater success.

Beyond competitions, friendly moments are offered to the young athletes from 70 countries. Away from the slopes and sports sites 1,100 athletes from around the world are tasting the “Learn & Share” programme, the opportunity to meet young people from other cultures, and under the supervision of trained coaches, discover other sports such as Telemark skiing, ice climbing and Parkour.
And they are also given the chance to deal with career-related topics, just like professional athletes, including workshops on career planning, injury prevention, anti-doping measures, illegal betting and healthy eating.

The organizers have made the YOG a real sports festival for one and all. Every day, up to 5,000 children and teenagers from the region mingle with competitors, practice sports and participate in presentations and workshops on sport and Olympism. They are accompanied by former top athletes and Olympic medal winners, there to bring youngsters closer to their sport and teach them Olympic values.

Also, the Olympic Village puts on concerts and entertainment shows, while many local spectators and families cheer on the athletes and ensure a warm and friendly atmosphere.

A combination of top-level sport and the opportunity for young athletes to be inspired and to learn through sport in a festive atmosphere, that is the winning secret of the 2016 Lillehammer YOG.