January 10, 2008 (Vancouver, BC) – The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) is now accepting applications for participants to attend the 2008 Olympic Youth Camp in Beijing. The program runs from August 2 to 18, 2008 and is open to anyone aged 16 to 18 as of June 30.

The aim of the Olympic Youth Camp (OYC) is to offer a broad intercultural experience to youth around the globe, enhancing their knowledge and appreciation of the world’s diversity. The camp utilizes the spirit of the Olympic Games and includes forums, workshops and excursions designed to educate, inspire and entertain.

The 2008 Olympic Youth Camp will extend throughout the XXIV Olympic Games in Beijing and includes admission to the Opening and Closing ceremonies, Olympic Torch Relay, a host of athletic events, sightseeing, courses on China’s storied culture and a tour of the Olympic village.

The Beijing Olympic Organizing Committee has allocated two spots to each National Olympic Committee, one male and one female, to attend the 2008 OYC. Candidates must demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics and leadership while showing active volunteerism in their communities. As well, they must be knowledgeable of Canadian Olympic values.

To learn more on how to apply, please find complete information regarding the application process, please visit www.olympic.ca. Applications are made to the provincial/territorial representative of the Canadian School Sports Federation and must be received by February 27, 2008. Selections will be made shortly thereafter and the successful candidates will be notified the week of March 31, 2008.

All expenses for the COC’s two “delegates” will be covered during the course of the OYC, including flights, transportation within Beijing, accommodation and meals.

The Canadian Olympic Committee is a national, private, not-for-profit organization committed to sport excellence. It is responsible for all aspects of Canada’s involvement in the Olympic movement, including Canada’s participation in the Olympic and Pan American Games and a wide variety of programs that promote the Olympic Movement in Canada through cultural and educational means. For more information, see the COC website.