2012 hopefuls celebrate Olympic Day

The schoolchildren, from Capital City Academy in London, met London 2012 organising committee Chief Executive Paul Deighton to find out about plans for the Games and its legacy.

They also met Youth Ambassador Amber Charles, UK Olympic athlete Jade Johnson and Paralympic Swimming Gold medallist Giles Long, who encouraged them to follow their passion to represent their country at the 2012 Games.

Giles Long said: "To be part of an Olympic or Paralympic Games is the ultimate achievement for any athlete.

"To encourage other young people into sport, to have these amazing experiences is very important to me, that is why it is great to be here today to support London 2012 in its vision to embrace the enthusiasm of the next generation."

Triple Jumper Darnte Wilson, 14, said of the visit: "This has been a great opportunity, which has really inspired me to work hard for success."

Olympic Day marks the founding of the International Organising Committee by Pierre de Coubertin on 23 June 1894.

A dedicated youth section of the London 2012 website - london2012.com/celebrate - was also launched today, providing information and inspiration for young people who want to be involved in the Games.

23 June 2006

Click here to read the full release