Lillehammer 2016 Winter Youth Olympic Games

The Youth Olympic Games are an international multi-sport event held in conjunction with the IOC that takes place every four years consistent with the current format of the Olympic Games.

All participating athletes must between the ages of 15-18 as of Dec. 31 of the Games year. Participants are selected by the National Olympic Committees based on qualification criteria from the International Federations and the International Olympic Committee.

Similar to the Olympic Games, the Youth Olympic Games are designed to integrate sport with education and culture, inspiring participants to live by the Olympic values and become ambassadors of Olympism. Integrated into the event is a unique culture and education program – Learn & Share – that is designed to equip athletes with the skills they need to succeed both on and off the field of play.