Athletics’ Legends share fun time with kids in Bressanone/Brixen

Five legends from the world of athletics spent the day ahead of the start of the World Youth Championships marketing athletics, the world's most significant individual sport.

Around 300 WYC participants enjoyed the "World Youth Masterclass" and "Kids' Athletics" along with Wilson Kipketer & Co. The Championships will officially open tomorrow at 6:30 pm on the Cathedral Square in Bressanone/Brixen in a 45-minute ceremony.

An anti-doping-workshop lead by some of athletics' super stars was only the warm-up for many athletes attending the Masterclass event.

But what really got the 300 WYC participants going was jumping a few rounds with High-Jump world champion Kajsa Bergqvist, taking a picture with Mike Powell and getting an autograph from the 800m world record holder Wilson Kipketer.

The five super starts including the British Olympic champion Kelly Holmes and world champion Stephane Diagana were not shy to get involved.

And to the surprise of the athletes participating at the event, pole vault record holder and IAAF Vice President Sergej Bubka paid a visit to the practice area of the WYC.

The IAAF ambassadors already started the morning with some fun teaching 48 elementary school children the ABC of athletics.

Children had the opportunity to run, throw, jump and even try the pole vault as part of several competitions - all under the professional advice of the top athletes.

The IAAF provided all the necessary equipment which is part of a worldwide strategy to further the sport by the IAAF. The event ended with all children receiving a diploma and a keepsake photo.

The colourful Opening Ceremony is set for tomorrow at 6:30 pm on the Cathedral Square in Bressanone/Brixen. Local Governor Luis Durnwalder will officially open the WYC.

Some of South Tyrol's top athletes will join in the celebration. There are almost 1350 athletes from 180 nations participating at the competitions.