Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps became the first official Ambassador of the Youth Olympic Games (YOG), according to a news release issued by IOC on Monday.

The 16-time Olympic medallist, who is visiting Vancouver to catch some of the Olympic Winter Games events, will support the Youth Olympic Games by encouraging the involvement of young people around the world.

Phelps said: "The Youth Olympic Games is an excellent initiative, not only for the athletes competing, but also those who are inspired to get into sport and be more active."

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.

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