The Festival of the young talents
While everybody’s eyes are directed to the fight for the overall World Cup victory and the upcoming World Championships in Swedish Falun, the young ski jumpers have the opportunity to compete in the prestigious events for youth. One of the events worth mentioning is the European Youth Olympic Festival.
(source eyof2015.org)
What is the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF)?
The history of this festival dates back to the year 1991, when the first summer edition of this event took place in Brussels, Belgium. The first winter edition of the EYOF was held in Aosta, Italy two years later. Since then every two year the "little Olympics" for young athletes takes place. It was known as the European Youth Olympic Days from 1991 to 1999. The EYOF is the biggest multi-sport event in Europe with about 1,500 athletes participating every year!
Who can compete in the EYOF?
The representatives of 49 member countries of the association of European Olympic Committees between the age of 14 and 18 are allowed to start in the competitions.
Which sports are represented in the winter edition of the Festival?
- Alpine Skiing - Cross Country - Ice Hockey - Snowboard - Ski Jumping - Figure Skating - Biathlon - Nordic Combined
What gives the Festival to young athletes?
The main goal of the Festival is to give the young athletes the chance to compete in the international area and teach them Olympic values such as friendship and respect. It is the first Olympic experience for young athletes in which they can learn a lot and feel the specific magic of the Olympic event. It is also a great opportunity to motivate young people to do sport and live in a healthy way.
Where will the upcoming edition of the EYOF take place?
The hosts of the 2015 European Youth Olympic Festival became Vorarlberg, Austria and Liechtenstein and the Festival will be held in the heart of the Alps. The previous edition of the Festival took place in Brasov, Romania.
When does the Festival start?
The Festival starts tomorrow, so prepare for a lot of sport emotions and maybe we will soon hear about the new young stars of ski jumping and other disciplines!
- by Anna Sobol
