AOC: Since the days of the ancient Olympic Games and into the modern era, the Olympic flame has been synonymous with the ideals and the spirit of the Olympics.

The 2014 Youth Olympic Torch is no different and will continue that same tradition, aside from one small change.

This year the flame will make its way to Nanjing ‘virtually’.

Though some of the more passionate Olympic fans may not take to the change lightly, some Australian Olympic legends have welcomed the virtual style torch relay with open arms.

Multiple Olympic medallist and Australian Youth Team Chef De Mission Susie O’Neill, thinks the new style of relay is just what the Youth Games need.

“I think this is great. People from all over the world can be involved,” she said.

“Geography and distance is not a problem. I actually think it would be a great idea for the Olympics as well.”

Unlike previous torch relays, this year everyone will have the chance to take part in getting the flame to Nanjing through a Virtual Torch Relay. Anyone with a Smartphone can download the app and take part.

Through the app, participants can run with their phone and the distance to a cumulative distance tally using the phones’ GPS technology. The app also allows individuals to touch two phones together and pass the flame on.

The Youth Olympics as a whole was designed to engage a younger audience and this new torch relay will do just that.

“it is a great concept, especially for the demographic competing at Youth Olympics,” O’Neill said.

“I know my children who are 8 and 10 years old would really enjoy it.”

The app, titled ‘Nanjing 2014 Torch Relay’, can be downloaded free from the Google Play Store and App Store.

Sam Rawlings
olympics.com.au