Kelowna

The world has officially been invited to what organizers believe will be one of the largest International Children's Winter Games ever held.

The games are set for Kelowna January 26 to 31, 2011.

Games chair Heather Schneider says invitations have now been sent out to more than 150 cities from 57 countries.

Only cities who have previously hosted a Children's summer or winter games, or those confirmed to host an event in the future are extended an invitation.

Schneider says there is room for 700 athletes age 12 to 15 and she expects that number will be reached.

"We are also expecting over 100 coaches plus delegations from each city," says Schneider.

"It's an incredible opportunity to network and exchange cultures from everywhere around the world. We've invited cities from Iceland, Europe, Asia and Australia so we are really excited to welcome them here."

While the invitations just went out this week, Schneider says there has already been interest shown from seven cities in Iceland.

Schneider says with the games a little more than seven months away, volunteers are now being recruited.

Volunteers are needed for everything from working with each sport plus opening and closing ceremonies.

The 2011 games will feature seven different sports including cross country skiing, alpine skiing, snow boarding, figure skating and curling.

Hockey and short track speed skating are being added for the first time.

Mitchell McCullough, 14, is a Kelowna speed skater who hopes to participate in the games in 2011.

"I am really excited and I hope that lots of different countries will come and participate," says McCullough.

"I hope to build lots of relationships and friendships that will last years. I hope I will be able to talk with other athletes and coaches and learn different ways to enhance my sports career.

McCullough has been involved in speed skating, both long track and short track for seven years. He finished second in the provincials this past season and was top 15 in nationals.

He hopes next year's games will be a springboard to his ultimate goal which is to represent Canada at the Winter Olympics.

Games organizers also announced Friday that Kelowna Olympian Kelsey Serwa will serve as an ambassador to the games.

"When things come up like this I have a hard time saying no because I want to see kids grow upon that competitive lifestyle," says Serwa.

"It teaches you so much and sports is a great leader in life. I think it greatly influences someone in how they are going to turn out later down the road."

Serwa says the games is an excellent opportunity for Kelowna to show the world what the city has.

Ironically, Serwa will be competing at a World Cup ski-cross event in Aspen, Colorado when the games are in Kelowna.

People wishing to volunteer for the games can get more information from the International Children's Games website, www.kelowna2011.com.

Link: Link to 2011 Children's Games Website