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The glamour of the Opening Ceremony

Welcome to the Official FEI Blog of the Youth  Olympic Games!  The first Equestrian event - the teams showjumping competition - will be held on 18 August, however, so much has already been happening in steamy Singapore.

The Olympic horses have been stationed at the beautiful official venue, Singapore Turf Club Riding Centre, since 15 July, continuing their training and conditioning for competing in the heat and humidity of Singapore's tropical climate.

Athletes enjoying the show

Excitement at the venue was high on Friday, 13 August, when the international competitors arrived to view the horses in the pre-competition 'trot up' and witness the draw, which determined their mounts for the Olympic events.  Anticipation was high as each rider's name was drawn randomly and allocated to the pre-numbered horses.  Once all riders had been allocated a horse, they visited the stables and were finally able to meet the special equines, who will partner them during their Olympic journey.  Saturday 14 August, found the riders participating in the first training session on their new horses, where they focused on getting to know each other and bonding for the important days ahead.  Training sessions for riders and their horses will be held daily - except on competition days - up until the final Equestrian event, the Individual Final on Tuesday, 24 August.

The Olympic torch

After the adventure of their first training session, it was time for more excitement for the competitors, in the form of the Youth Olympic Games Official Opening Ceremony.  This spectacular event was held at Singapore's stunning floating stage, Marina Bay.  The evening unfolded with the story of Singapore's history, from the early days up until today, including an amazing mix of live action and animation, complete with over 5000 performers, fireworks and light shows.  As part of the official ceremony, Singapore's Caroline Chew - who is competing in the showjumping events - undertook the Oath for the Athletes, on behalf of all those competing.  Excellent to see Caroline and equestrian sport in the spotlight!

Such a remarkable night, was certainly the perfect way to start what promises to be a wonderful twelve days of challenges, achievements and friendship for the athletes.  It's great to know the horses and riders participating in the Equestrian events, with the other athletes and sports, will be taking their place in history!