Young athletes inspired by Olympic champions

(From left to right) Olympic champions and medalists Lucie Decosse of France, Patrick Murphy of Australia and Heather Moyse of Canada attended the forum on Monday evening, August 18, 2014. [By Xiang Bin/China.org.cn]

Athletes at the 2nd Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing get a chance to meet and directly communicate with world champions thanks to the "Chat with Champions" forum.

"By taking part in 'Chat with Champions,' athletes can have close contact with these world champions and appreciate their valuable qualities, Olympic spirit and perseverance," an organizer of the forum said.

The forum invites several world champions and coaches of gold medalists to the lecture hall at the Youth Olympic Village to have face-to-face conversations with audience members. Attendees can directly ask athletes about their career plans and their lives after retirement. The forum focuses on the Olympic spirit, skills development, happy and healthy lifestyles, social responsibility, and self expression.

"It's very interesting to be here to listen to their opinions and talk about their career. It's very helpful," said Tereza Pribanova, an athlete from the Czech Republic who attended the event.