host posted on June 30, 2009 19:51
 |
| Photo courtesy of: John
Heng |
The Games
cauldron lit by national athletes – (from left) shooter Jasmine Ser, bowler
Remy Ong
and swimmer Tao Li. |
Audience
bowled over by spectacular show at Singapore Indoor Stadium
The crowd was treated to splendid performances at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on 29 June 2009 that will be embedded in their memories for a long time to come. A dazzling showcase of colours and music that tantalises the senses, the Opening Ceremony of the inaugural Asian Youth Games (AYG) was a spectacle to behold.
Kept entertained from the start to the very end, the audience was in high spirits as they fervently roared the AYG cheers and did the Kallang Wave with admirable synchronicity. FRASIA, our beloved AYG mascot, made its appearance and the crowd eagerly whisked out their cameras to take memorable pictures as he did his signature three poses of Friendship, Respect and Excellence.
The non-stop pulsating performances staged by some of the Republic’s finest youth talents in gymnastics, dance, skating and music, coupled with the electrifying display of pyrotechnics and colourful light show, made for an evening of sheer visual and audio treat for both the AYG athletes and invited guests.
The crowd went wild as the participating athletes from around Asia marched in. After the messages were delivered, the flag raised and the oath taken, Singapore’s very own national athletes and torch-bearers, Tao Li, Remy Ong and Jasmine Ser then lit the Games cauldron to the deafening cheers of the crowd!
For those who were not at the Indoor Stadium for the Opening Ceremony, they too were able to enjoy the performance in the comfort of their home, together with viewers around the world. Amongst the many other firsts for the AYG, the Games were made even more memorable as it was the first multi-sport Youth Games that was broadcast on both traditional and new media platforms!