Rogge warns against cheating

Speaking at the official opening ceremony of the inaugural Winter Youth Olympic Games at Bergisel Stadium, Rogge said the event is an opportunity for the young athletes to learn.
“To the athletes, I say . . . these Games exist for you. You have come from 70 countries not just to compete against each other, but also to learn from each other,” said Rogge.
Rogge said some of the friendships formed during the Games will last a lifetime and so will the memories.
The IOC president said the athletes have to be honest with themselves and avoid cheating if they are to become true champions.
“This evening marks your entry into the Olympic world. That honour comes with great responsibility.
“As the next generation of sports men and women, you are now the role models that represent our hopes for the future. You have a chance to be true champions, not only by winning medals, but by conducting yourself like Olympians. Strive for excellence but compete with friendship and respect for your opponent. Reject doping and other shortcuts that cheat yourself as well as others,” said Rogge.
The inaugural Games will see 1 059 athletes from 70 countries taking part in the event. Out of the 70 countries at the Games only three African nations – Eritrea, South Africa and Morocco – are participating in these Games due to the different environment in which Winter Games are held.
The three countries from Africa will be competing in the Alpine skiing with South Africa being represented by Sive Speekman while Shannon Abeda will represent Eritrea and Morocco will field Adam Lamhamedi.
Alpine skiing is the sport of sliding down snow – covered hills on skis with fixed-heel bindings.
Rogge’s vision of an Olympic Games for the young people became a reality in 2010 at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games held in Singapore and the Innsbruck Games marks the introduction of the winter edition.
Singapore saw 204 countries out of 205 National Olympic Committees competing and Zimbabwe sent 27 athletes to compete in cycling, football, triathlon, equestrian and athletics in Singapore.
The vision of the Games both Winter and Summer is to inspire young people around the world to participate in sport, and to live by the Olympic values. They are a sporting event of the highest level for the youth, integrating education and culture and encouraging universal representation.