As mascots for Singapore 2010, Lyo, a lion cub, embodies the values of Excellence and Friendship, while Merly, a merlion, personifies the values of Excellence and Respect. Through their acts and stories, they will promote the Olympic Values of Excellence, Friendship and Respect. These names were chosen by the youth from all over the world.
Lyo is short for “Lion of the Youth Olympics”. A sports lover, he is fun-loving and hopes to inspire young people to keep fit and enjoy sports for life. He symbolises youths’ boundless energy, their determination to live life to the fullest and zeal to strive for Excellence.
Merly got her name from “mer” (meaning the sea) and “l y” stand for liveliness and youthfulness. A passionate advocate of environment protection, Merly believes that everyone has a role to play in working towards a sustainable future. She also wants to encourage young people to play an active role in their communities and promote respect for one another.
Welcoming Lyo and Merly to the Singapore 2010 family, Mr Goh Kee Nguan, Chief Executive Officer of the Singapore Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee, said, “As the host city for the inaugural YOG, we hope to share our culture with friends around the world. What better way to do it than to have Lyo and Merly represent us and the youth, and be the faces of the first YOG.”
The first edition of the YOG will take place in Singapore starting from the 14 through the 26 August 2010. Shooting Sport is part of the program with four events, Air Pistol and Air Rifle Men and Women. The competitions will take place at the Singapore Sports School venue.