体坛英语新闻：Michael Phelps becomes Youth Olympic Games ambassador

A combination photo shows Michael Phelps of the U.S. holding each of his eight gold medals in the swimming competition at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in this August 2008 file photo.

"I am delighted that I have been given the opportunity to become the first official Ambassador of the Youth Olympic Games, and can't wait to get working with the YOG team to promote the first event this summer!"

Michael Phelps of the U.S.swims during a training session ahead of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games August 8, 2008.

IOC President Jacques Rogge said: "We are delighted that Michael is supporting our efforts to launch the Youth Olympic Games. Preparations for the inaugural edition in Singapore are on track, and the IOC is looking forward to welcoming 3,600 athletes to Singapore this summer!"

The first-ever Youth Olympic Games will be held this summer in Singapore while China's Nanjing was just voted the host of the second Youth Olympic Games two days before the Vancouver Winter Games started.

The mission of the YOG is to inspire young people around the world to participate in sport and adopt and live by the Olympic values.

Michael Phelps of the U.S. swimming team celebrates after winning the men's 4x 100 medley relay during the Duel in the Pool competition at the Manchester Aquatics Centre in northern England December 18, 2009.