Empowering Global Winter Sports Through Innovative Initiatives

Jan 17, 2025 at 3:12 PM

Inspired by the success of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Games, a series of programs have been launched to foster global interest and participation in winter sports. The PyeongChang Legacy Foundation (PLF) has taken significant steps to encourage athletes and youth worldwide. These efforts culminated in remarkable achievements, as 39 participants from PLF projects qualified for the Winter Youth Olympic Games (YOG). Two athletes from developing winter nations even secured medals at Gangwon 2024. A silver medal in women’s monobob was claimed by Agnes Campeol from Thailand, while Jonathan Lourimi of Tunisia earned a silver in men’s monobob.

The "New Horizons Academy" stands out among these initiatives, aiming to expand winter sports globally. Organized by the PyeongChang Memorial Foundation and PyeongChang County, this program supports athletes from countries with limited winter sports infrastructure. Young athletes from various nations, including Colombia, Thailand, and Tunisia, have benefited from specialized training camps. Twenty-five athletes representing five different sports and nine National Olympic Committees (NOCs) competed at Gangwon 2024 following their participation in these camps. Additionally, the Dream Programme, an ongoing legacy initiative from PyeongChang 2018, plays a crucial role in promoting sports accessibility. This annual event offers immersive training opportunities for young individuals aged 13 to 23 from developing countries, contributing to the development of future international athletes.

Through these comprehensive programs, the foundation not only nurtures talent but also promotes inclusivity and diversity in winter sports. By providing platforms for athletes from diverse backgrounds, these initiatives highlight the importance of equal opportunities and global collaboration. Such efforts inspire a new generation of athletes and enthusiasts, fostering a spirit of unity and perseverance that transcends borders and cultures.