Singapore 2009

The 1st Asian Youth Games was held in Singapore from June 29, 2009 to July 7, 2009 in over 90 sporting events. The 1st Asian Youth Games was known as the qualifier for the Asian countries to the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics, also known as the 1st Summer Youth Olympics and which will also be held in Singapore.

Event Background
The Asian Youth Games (AYG) was first mooted as part of Singapore's Youth Olympic Games (YOG) bid in 2007;
The Olympic Council of Asia's (OCA) Executive Board unanimously agreed to award the hosting of the 1st AYG to Singapore on 3rd April 2008;
The decision to let Singapore host the first ever AYG was approved by all 45 members of the OCA on 6th April 2008.

Event Objectives
To gather the youth from around Asia in a celebration of youth, sports and learning;
To provide a platform for youths in Asia to engage in friendly competition and imbibe the Olympic sporting values of excellence, friendship and respect;
To provide a forum for learning, cultural exchange and friendship among the youth.

Other than sports competitions, the AYG will also incorporate educational and cultural programmes into its itinerary so as to create a holistic learning experience for all participants. The focus is therefore on attaining a right mix between competitive sports and culture and education.

The AYG will follow International Federations' (IFs) guidelines unless otherwise stipulated in the games' rules and regulations.

Officially opened by: Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong
Torch Lighter: Tao Li, Remy Ong, Jasmine Ser
Main Stadium: Singapore Indoor Stadium