Apia on track for Youth Games

APIA – Samoa is “more than ready” to host the Fifth Commonwealth Youth Games in September this year.

This was a statement by the Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive officer David Grevember who was in Apia last week following an inspection of the facilities for the 2015 Games.

“Samoa has fantastic facilities and I’m very confident in terms of the overview of planning for the upcoming Youth Games,” he told local media.

Less than three months out from the Games, Grevember gmade a special trip to Samoa to check on the progress of Samoa’s preparation and to look at areas the Federation can offer any needed support.

Over 1000 young athletes from the ages 14 to 18 from more than 60 Commonwealth countries and territories are participating.

The Youth Games main aim is to unite children from around the world in a friendly sport festival.

Prior to the game in September 2015, the Commonwealth Games Federation will meet in Auckland, New Zealand, to finalise issues relating to a new vision and strategic plans for the federation.

Gervemberg said the new vision is to “aspire Commonwealth athletes to drive their ambition and empower all Commonwealth citizens to sport and uphold humanity, equality and destiny.”

The new vision also endorsed, targets the potential to bring the community together in sports and culture.

With Samoa so rooted in its cultural aspects, Gervember said it is ideal place to start this culture environment conversation and ambition.

“This could also be a great opportunity for Samoa of all ages to thrive and take advantage of once in a life time experience,” he said.

Grevemberg said he is absolutely sure about Samoa’s hosting ability.

“There is absolute no doubt in my mind that Samoa is going to be a fantastic host for the upcoming Youth Games,” he said. “This is a very exciting time in the history of the Commonwealth.”

Grevemberg made the comments during a special meeting with Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, where the medals for the Games were unveiled.

The Prime Minister assured the Commonwealth CEO that Samoa will go out of its way to welcome the athletes and officials in September.

As for the medals, Tuilaepa challenged local athletes to “train hard” so that many of them will stay in Samoa, “especially the golden type”.