INNSBRUCK 2016 INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S WINTER GAMES (ICG) – WE ARE READY!

Time for action!

We are all ready for the 12 January 2016:

the start of the Innsbruck 2016 International Children’s Games (ICG)!

From 12 to 16 January, the Tyrol will stage a unique festival of sport and culture for young people from around the world!

Innsbruck has the honour of organising the International Children’s Games for the first time, having hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976 as well as the Universiade in 2005 and the Winter Youth Olympic Games in 2012, another sporting event under the auspices of the IOC is being organised.

About 600 athletes between 12 and 15 years from many different cities and countries worldwide will travel to the Tyrol and experience unforgett- able moments with the local population.

Ready. Set. Go!

In January 2016 the athletes aged 12 to 15 will compete in eight Olympic winter sports disciplines with an overall of 31 medal events: Alpine Skiing, Biathlon, Cross-Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Freestyle Skiing, Ice Hockey, Snowboard and Speed Skating.

Some new events will be brought to the games too: The Mixed Team Events are a central part of the Innsbruck 2016 sports programme, they will allow athletes of different delegations to compete together in teams. These competitions will once again underline the important role of the Games in bringing people together and reinforce the Olympic values of friendship and respect.

Love it!

Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol, is situated in a stunning natural environment in the heart of Europe.

Exactly 40 years after the Olympic Games of 1976, Innsbruck will once again draw the spotlight to the venues of yesteryear as well as some of the new sports facilities: The Nordic sports disciplines Biathlon and Cross-Country Skiing will be carried out in Seefeld. The ice halls of the Olympiaworld Innsbruck are the setting for Speed Skating and Figure Skating. The competitions of the third ice sport – Ice Hockey – will take place at the Ice Arena Götzens and the Ice Arena Telfs. The Muttereralmpark, an area where snow is guaranteed, is the venue for Ski Freestyle and Snowboard competitions. The Alpine Skiers will be cheered on at the Axamer Lizum!

Innsbruck and Tyrol are perfectly prepared for hosting this unique youth festival.

Feel the spirit

Additionally to the sports competitions, there are further ICG highlights on the programme:

At the Opening Ceremony all the participating delegations will be presented and the ICG Dance Company “I Can Groove” as well as the side programme will enchant everyone. The Exhibition Centre Innsbruck will be turned into the Homebase, which will be the meeting point for all athletes and locals daily until 10 pm with a colourful mixture of music, trend sports and some surprises. The Closing Ceremony on 15 January will mark the end of an unforgettable week in the heart of the Alps.

Friends & sports

The International Children’s Games were founded in 1968 to create a better world based on friendship. Sports seemed to be one of the best means to bring young people from different countries together.

The young athletes aged 12 to 15 will be encouraged to strive to perform to the best of their abilities within the ICG and Olympic spirit of friendship and respect.

About 1,000 athletes and coaches from all over the world are invited to celebrate together with the Tyrolean population, with the local youth leading the way, experience cultural exchange and build new international friendships.

Tyrolean School Winter Games

At the same time as the Innsbruck 2016 International Children’s Winter Games, the first Tyrolean School Winter Games will be held.

From January 13 to 15, 2,000 pupilsfrom all over the Tyrol will have the opportunity to show their skills in various winter sports disciplines in the official ICG 2016 sports venues. Doing sport together and having lots of fun – that’s what it’s all about! After finishing their sporting competitions, the youngsters are welcome to watch the competitions, featuring the international athletes.

Join us!

Around 500 volunteers will witness the ICG at first hand and take an exceptional look behind the scenes!

They will be a key link between everyone involved in the Games – athletes, coaches, officials, VIPs, etc. – and important representatives of the ICG 2016. With their dedication, skills and experience our volunteers will not only make a significant contribution to the smooth running of the event but also create a unique atmosphere and unforgettable memories for all guests and parties involved thanks to their helpfulness and hospitality.

After the ICG is before the ICG! If you register on our Volunteer Platform, you become part of the volunteer team tirol, which will also support many other major events in the region in the years to come.

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