(Above) Japan's Setsuko Fukuzawa
displaying the first medals for the
Youth Olympic Games at a media
briefing in Singapore yesterday. The
medals, dubbed 'Yes Youth Can' by
their designer, to be awarded to the
2010 Youth Olympic Games'
winners. Pictures: BT/ Amir Amin

As Amanda Liew and her fellow athletes were preparing to compete in their events at the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore, the organisers showed them and the world what the winners were taking home during a media briefing yesterday, the first medals for the Games.

Competition takes place between today and Aug 26, where the best performing athletes will be awarded these specially designed medals.

The design was created by Setsuko Fukuzawa from Japan, winner of the Medal Design Competition held by the International Olympic Committee in the build-up to Singapore 2010.

Her medal features the flames and waves, symbolising the Olympic spirit and the cheering of athletes. The Olympians body shaped in a Y is reminiscent of Goddess Nike and stands for Youth, as referred to in the 'Yes Youth Can' slogan, the name that Fukuzawa gave to her creation.

The reverse side features the mythical lion synonymous with Singapore, and emblem for the Games, which represents the spirit of youth.

Courtesy from Brunei Times