Ladies and Gentlemen:
Thank you and your NOC for the great support to the Olympic Movement. The city of Beijing, steeped in tradition and embracing modernity, will soon have the privilege of welcoming you all to attend the Beijing 2008 Olympic Youth Camp. We deeply appreciate your participation and look forward to seeing you here this summer. Welcome to Beijing!
Alongside the Games of the XXIX Olympiad, this year's Youth Camp will mark the setting of new records, adding fresh strands to the Olympic tapestry. We will for the first time be joined by young people with disabilities from the host country. At this Camp, about 500 campers from all over the world will forge common bonds with new people, exchange moving stories and witness "One World, One Dream" together.
The Olympic Youth Camp grants young people the chance to come together under the Olympic flag to share their cultures, and it is a signal honour for me and my colleagues to be a part of this programme. I am certain that you, as Olympic Youth Campers, are similarly moved by great hopes and filled with great dreams. "Youth Create the Future" – as the future is placed in your hands, so is this camp. You are the ones tasked with deploying a youthful and vibrant spirit, which is an integral part of the Olympic Games. I believe your participation and experience in this camp shall be marked with respect for each other and forged in a sense of unity and cooperation. I know that amidst all this excitement, new friendships will be forged and new life experiences will be built.
As your friends and trusty organising team, we have prepared a rich and exciting programme of camp activities sure to leave you with lasting memories. The activities will include attending the Opening ceremony of the Olympic Games; watching Olympic competitions; visiting the Great Wall, Forbidden City or experiencing other cultural activities. We are currently working towards fostering a safe and comfortable environment with the very best services, so as to ensure a rich and unique experience for everyone. Your participation and satisfaction will be our best reward.
This carefully compiled handbook contains must-read information regarding the Youth Camp, which will guide you through your stay in Beijing. Please take the time to read it through carefully and come to the Camp with energy and confidence.
See you all in Beijing this summer!
Wang Yue
Director of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Youth Camp
April 22, 2008