Singapore, You have got the spirit. The news that Singapore waited over seven months for came at precisely 7.11pm on 21 February 2008, broadcast live via satelite link from Lausanne in Switzerland.
The good news was delivered by International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Jacques Rogge. The message was sweet & clear - " The IOC has the honour of announcing that the first Summer Youth Olympic Games in 2010 are awarded to the city of Singapore".
More than 5,000 people gathered at the Padang for the announcement as well as countless others glued to television sets across the island. IOC Executive Board member Ng Ser Miang and Parliamentary Secretary (Committee Development, Youth and Sports) Teo Ser Luck, who had been instrumental in pushing the bid, reflected Singaporeans' joy over making this historic moment. Bear hugging, jumping up and down on stage, broad grins creasing their faces. Seeing the picture does make you feel the joy and resounding cheer of this historic moment.
"Great honour and priviledge for Singapore and every Singaporean. For the first time, the Olympics flame will be in South-east Asia, and in Singapore. We will be the focus of a new era of sports development for Singapore, for South-east Asia, and for the Olympic movement". A celebratory speech, delivered by our smiling Prime Minister, Mr Lee Hsien Loong.
The national effort to land the Games - both young and old, from schoolchildren to taxi drivers were involved. This including a 68-year-old cabby who wrote letters t all IOC members telling them why Singapore deserved to host the games.
The IOC members voted 53-44 in the Republic's favour, which the final leg between Singapore and Moscow. What clinched it was Singapore's innovative Games concept, which included a compact venue plan and a comprehensive Olympic education programme. As quoted by Mr Rogge: Singapore has put together a very exciting project and I have no doubt that their professionlism and enthusiasm will be instrumental in the staging of a successful YOG.
Now the countdown to the Games' opening on Aug 14, 2010 begins. We have 2-1/2 years to prepare for the YOG. Its going to be challenging, but it's going to be full of excitement and achievements. BIG CHEERS for all SINGAPOREANS
