Hundreds of young people got the chance to compete at incredible, world-class London 2012 legacy venues in Summer 2022, as part of London Youth Games’ 2022 season.

From May to July 2022, children in London took part in 8 sports at 6 outstanding venues. From kayaking at Lee Valley White Water Centre in May, to cycling at Lee Valley VeloPark, to swimming at London Aquatics Centre in July 2022, these events gave children memorable, life-boosting experiences that they’ll never forget.

Genesis, swimmer from Hounslow, who competed at London Aquatics Centre where London 2012’s Olympic swimming was held, said: “It was cool to feel how Olympians feel in a way, because we’re sitting and swimming in the same atmosphere as they were when they competed.” Yamina, cyclist for Southwark at Olympic track cycling venue, Lee Valley VeloPark added: “It feels very exciting to know that very famous people have also raced here. We get to cycle right outside the Olympic velodrome which is really cool.”

Some of the Britain’s greatest sportspeople, including Mo Farah, Christine Ohuruogu, Bradley Wiggins and Linford Christie, have all gone from representing their borough at London Youth Games to representing GB on the Olympic stage.

Emily Defroand, ex-team GB and England hockey player, was at London Youth Games’ Hockey Finals and said: “It’s pretty incredible for these young people to get to play on the Olympic pitch where Great Britain and England Hockey play all of their home games, it’s very impressive.”

Perri Shakes-Drayton, track and field European champion, world champion and Olympian, added: “I actually used to train at Lee Valley Athletics Centre and a lot of stars have touched this soil.”

London Youth Games’s events at Olympic legacy venues are supported by the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), Lee Valley Regional Park Authority and Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL).

Shaun Dawson, Chief Executive of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority said ” It’s fantastic to see the next generation of London athletes in our inspiring venues, which have played host to a non-stop series of major international events. We look forward to supporting London Youth Games in the future to create more opportunities for young people to experience the legacy of London 2012.”

Lyn Garner, Chief Executive at London Legacy Development Corporation said: “It’s wonderful to think that 10 years on from London 2012, the iconic venues at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park will continue to inspire the next sporting generation.”

Andrew Clark, National Sports and Aquatics Manager, Greenwich Leisure Limited said: “Generations of Londoners have had the opportunity to take part in these games over the years, myself included, and not only is it a great showcase of talent but it also plays a key role in bringing people from different communities together.”