International Children's Games – Youth organization of cities global friendship through sports

3 days ago

With just 67 days remaining until the start of the International Children’s Games in Hualien on 1 August 2026, excitement continues to build around the world as cities prepare to send their young athletes to Taiwan for this global celebration of youth sport and friendship.One city already generating excitement is Chatham, Canada, where the Chatham Pool Sharks International Swim Team was recognised by the Mayor’s Office during a recent Council Meeting, alongside four members of the Wildcats delegation, as Team Chatham prepares for the journey to Hualien. The Chatham Pool Sharks have built a strong reputation in youth swimming development, producing talented young swimmers who regularly compete at regional and national level competitions in Canada. Their participation at the International Children’s Games reflects the dedication and hard work of both the athletes and coaches, and it was clearly a proud moment for the 11 young athletes selected to represent their city and country on the international stage.The International Children’s Games continues to provide young athletes with opportunities not only to compete at a high level, but also to build friendships, experience new cultures and create lifelong memories through sport. We wish Team Chatham all the very best as they prepare for Hualien 2026.(Information adapted from the Chatham Pool Sharks International Swim Team facebook page) ... See MoreSee Less

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The International Children's Games

4 days ago

Blast from the PastOne of the unique traditions of hosting the International Children’s Games is that many host cities leave behind a lasting legacy — often in the form of a sculpture, artwork, or commemorative artifact — so that the city will always remember that it once welcomed the world through the ICG.One such piece can still be found in Lanarkshire, Scotland, host of the 45th ICG Games in 2011. One person who has a particularly strong attachment to this artifact is Hugh Waters, Secretary General of the ICG. Back in 2011, Hugh played a key role in the hosting of the Games in Lanarkshire, and seeing this sculpture today brings back many fond memories of what was a very special edition of the ICG.The sculpture itself is fascinating. The silhouettes appear to depict multiple sporting disciplines in motion — almost like a flowing timeline of athletes moving across the steel panel. The overall form resembles a wave, flame, or banner, beautifully capturing themes of movement, youth, friendship, and unity that have always defined the ICG spirit.The weathered corten steel style is also very characteristic of Scottish civic public art from that era, blending naturally into the surrounding landscape while standing proudly as a quiet reminder of the Games that once brought the world’s young athletes to Lanarkshire.A wonderful reminder that while the Games may last only a few days, the memories, friendships, and legacy forged through the ICG can endure for generations. ... See MoreSee Less

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The International Children's Games

7 days ago

From the city of Hamilton, which is preparing its bid to host the International Children’s Games during the landmark 60th anniversary celebrations in 2028, we now turn our attention to the hosts of the 2027 Games — the cities of Ancient Olympia and Ilida in Greece.A significant working meeting for OLYMPIA – ILIDA 2027 was recently held with the Deputy Minister of Sports of Greece, Mr. Yiannis Vroutsis. Present at the meeting were the Mayor of Ancient Olympia, Aris Panagiotopoulos, the Mayor of Ilida, Christos Christodoulopoulos, Member of Parliament for Laconia Neoklis Kritikos, who coordinated the meeting, as well as the five Members of Parliament representing the prefecture of Ilia from across the political spectrum of the Hellenic Parliament — Andreas Nikolakopoulos, Dimitris Avramopoulos, Michalis Katrinis, Dionysis Kalamatianos and Dionysia-Theodora Avgerinopoulou.The Deputy Minister emphasised that the hosting of the International Children’s Games by the two municipalities is considered a national affair and expressed the full support of the Ministry towards ensuring the success of the Games. He also appointed members of his team to serve as liaisons to support the preparations and organisation efforts. Also present at the meeting was Nikos Tzanakos, member of the ICG Executive Committee.The International Children’s Games looks forward to working closely with Ancient Olympia and Ilida as preparations continue for what promises to be a memorable edition of the Games in the birthplace of the Olympic spirit. ... See MoreSee Less

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The International Children's Games

1 week ago

Even as International Children’s Games President Igor Topole and Secretary General Hugh Waters take their leave of Hamilton, Ontario, it has certainly been a productive and memorable visit.Over the past few days, they had the opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of the people of Hamilton, while also meeting many of the individuals and potential staff members who could play important roles in the organisation and delivery of the Games should Hamilton be awarded the 2028 International Children’s Games.A major highlight of the visit was the tour of the outstanding sports facilities at McMaster University, one of Canada’s leading universities renowned for its excellence in research, innovation, student life, and athletics. The university boasts an extensive sporting infrastructure with top-grade facilities capable of hosting major national and international competitions. From athletics and football facilities to indoor courts, training venues, fitness centres, swimming complexes, and athlete support spaces, the McMaster sports precinct offers an impressive environment for young athletes to compete and interact.The delegation also visited the Ron Joyce Stadium, a modern 6,000-seat venue which opened in 2008 and is home to the McMaster Marauders football, soccer, and rugby teams. The stadium is being considered as the proposed location for both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Games.The likely sports programme in Hamilton could include Swimming, Football, 3x3 Basketball, Athletics, Beach Volleyball, and Judo. Accommodation options are also impressive, with participants potentially housed in spacious university residences such as Les Prince Hall, Hedden Hall, and the Peter George Centre for Living and Learning, all located conveniently within the university environment.Do take a look through the accompanying photographs of the sports venues and accommodation facilities. If Hamilton is awarded the Games, it certainly looks like athletes, coaches, and officials from around the world will enjoy an unforgettable experience in a city blessed with excellent facilities, warm hospitality, and a vibrant sporting culture. ... See MoreSee Less

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The International Children's Games

2 weeks ago

International Children’s Games President Igor Topole and Secretary General Hugh Waters continued their visit to Hamilton, Ontario, as part of the city’s preparations and bid discussions to host the 2028 International Children’s Games.During their stay, they toured a number of the sports facilities that could potentially be used should Hamilton be awarded the Games. One of the highlights was a visit to the impressive McMaster University sports facilities, including the Ron Joyce Stadium. Opened in 2008, the stadium seats 6,000 spectators and is home to the McMaster Marauders football, soccer, and rugby teams. The venue is being considered as the proposed site for both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Games.The delegation also visited the office of Esther Paul, where they had the opportunity to meet members of the staff who could potentially play key roles in the planning and organisation of the Games should Hamilton be awarded the 2028 edition. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to better understand the people and operational support behind the city’s bid efforts.Beyond the sporting venues, the delegation explored several of Hamilton’s tourist attractions and experiences that athletes, coaches, and officials would be able to enjoy during the Games. One iconic destination that stands out is the world-famous Niagara Falls, located just a short distance from Hamilton. Should Hamilton secure the hosting rights, organised tours to Niagara Falls would certainly become a memorable highlight for many visiting delegations.With excellent sporting infrastructure, a vibrant city atmosphere, and close proximity to one of Canada’s most recognisable landmarks, Hamilton promises the potential for a truly memorable edition of the International Children’s Games in 2028. ... See MoreSee Less

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August 1 - 6, 2026