Bridgetown – – Several months after welcoming the Commonwealth Baton to Barbados, yet another sporting icon is set to visit. On Monday, May 26, as part of the celebrations for the upcoming Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing, China, the Nanjing 2014 Torch Relay will pass through the island.
This innovative relay is completely virtual and utilises a downloadable app to engage with people all over the world. “This is only the second time in history that the Youth Olympic Games has been held and we are extremely proud to play a part in this unique Virtual Torch Relay,” says Steve Stoute, President of the Barbados Olympic Association (BOA). “We encourage Barbadians to download the app and pass the flame on Monday in a show of support for the athletes between the ages of 14-18 who will be representing Barbados in August at the Games.”
Preparations are already underway and the Barbados Youth Ambassador for Nanjing 2014, Ryan Brathwaite, is counting down the days. “The Virtual Relay is just one of the many exciting events planned for Nanjing. Cultural exchange is a unique component of the Youth Olympic Games and this is a tremendous opportunity for Barbados to establish strong relationships with young people all over the world.”
Anyone using a PC or smart phone can be a torch bearer and can pass the flame via a series of interactive games. Participants learn more about the Youth Olympic Games, Nanjing and the Chinese culture and have the opportunity to win fantastic prizes.
To become a torch bearer please visit http://torchrelay.nanjing2014.org/ and scan the QR code or download the app available in the App Store or via Google Play.