The Olympic Winter Games in 2018 are going to Asia.

It is third time lucky for the Korean resort of Pyeongchang winning the right to host the Olympics for the first time ever.

After two failed attempts persistence paid off when the International Olympic Committee members cast their votes at the 123rd IOC Session in Durban, South Africa.

It was all over in one round with Pyeongchang thumping its rivals with 63 votes to Munich's 25 and the French town of Annecy with 7.

In their final presentation to the IOC members Pyeongchang played on their previous defeats and pleaded that this was their time.

“After the disappointment we got up, dusted ourselves off and learned from our mistakes,” they said.

“We hope that you are inspired by our persistence and patience and hope you will share our visions of new horizons.”

“Our vision is about hope, we want to promote the Olympic movement and grow winter sport”.

It was a very convincing pitch but after a campaign lasting ten years the Koreans had “ticked all the boxes”.

They have promised ultra modern facilities, new venues and a high speed train to make sure everyone gets to the Games in comfort and on time.

Their President Mr Lee took the stage. He spoke about the 1948 St Moritz Winter games where his country first competed.

”We were one of the world’s poorest countries,” he said. “We sent three skaters and one coach. Now Korea wants to give back to the world and the Olympic movemen.”

“It is a national priority of the Korean government and has been so for the last 10 years. We have worked hard, we will make you proud. I ask you for your support today so we can finally make our Olympic and Paralympic Games dream come true."

They believe Pyeongchang will become a hub for youngsters all over Asia wanting to compete in winter sports.

The reigning Olympic figure skating champion Yuna Kim also addressed the IOC members.

"I am an example of a living legacy of the government commitment to improving winter sports. I know now more than ever what our victory will mean." 

In a lighter moment, the Koreans apologised to the recently married IOC member Prince Albert of Monaco.

“Sorry you are spending your honeymoon listening to PyeongChang speaking for the third time. We promise to make it up to you in 2018”

In Korea thousand of people stayed up late awaiting the decision and the party has officially commenced. Commiserations to the wonderful bids from Munich and Annecy.

Mike Tancred
AOC - Durban