The 3rdd Youth Olympic Games, known as the III Summer Youth Olympic Games, and commonly known as Buenos Aires 2018, were an international sports, cultural, and educational event held at  Buenos Aires, Argentina from 6-18 October 2018. More than 4,000 athletes from 204 different countries and regions participated in 32 different sports in the said Games.

The opening ceremony of the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics was held at the Obelisco de Buenos Aires on 6 October 2018 that defied gravity and set off a celebration in the very heart of Argentina’s capital.

It was a historical night for the 200,000 people who came to the Obelisk in Buenos Aires. It was unforgettable night for the 4,000 athletes who, for the first time in modern Olympic history, were the stars of an Opening Ceremony that was set outside of a stadium, open to the public and free of charge. It was one hour and 53 minutes of pure emotion – an urban experience that celebrated sport with an inclusive, interactive and multicultural approach.

IOC President Thomas Bach said: “To get here, each of you trained and competed hard. You gave your best in the sport you love so much. This is why you deserve to be here, at your Games. Every athlete is different. We all come from different parts of the world and have different cultures. But we are all united by the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect. Guided by these Olympic values, each one of you makes a difference in sport and in life. This experience will stay with you for all your life. We are all assembled here to celebrate you, as the real game-changers.”   

The final part of the Ceremony saw the Youth Olympic flame being passed between several young Argentinian athletes representing all the other athletes, the Game Changers, who will be inspiring the public over the next 12 days of competition. The Torch Relay concluded with two legends of Argentinian sport – Paula Pareto and Santiago Lange – who had the honour of lighting the cauldron with the Youth Olympic flame. The flame will now be moved to the Youth Olympic Park, where it will continue to burn until the end of the Games on 18 October.

The Ceremony culminated in a dazzling firework display, which illuminated the Buenos Aires night sky amidst the cheers of the athletes and the public. Let the Youth Olympic Games began! 

The closing ceremony officially ended the Youth Olympics, which were held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, for the past two weeks.

The national anthem of Argentina as well as the Olympic anthem was sung during the closing ceremony. The Olympic flag was taken down and was given to the next country hosting the Youth Olympics, which will be Senegal in 2022. The flag of Senegal was raised and the anthem was sung.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach said the games were a great experience, and thanked the athletes for showcasing Olympic values throughout the two weeks. He said he is excited to see the games hosted in Africa and thanked everyone who made the Buenos Aires games a success. 

Santos was among more than 200 athletes who brought their flags across the stage during a parade of nations.The closing ended with fireworks and music. 

Participating Nations

204

Sports/Events

32
Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Boxing, Canoeing, Cycling, Diving, Equestrian, Fencing, Football, Golf, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Handball, Hockey, Judo, Karate, Modern Pentathlon, Roller Speed Skating, Rowing, Rugby Sevens, Sailing, Shooting, Sports Climbing, Swimming, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Triathlon, Weightlifting, Wrestling.

Pakistan's Participation in 3rd Youth Olympic Games

07-member Pakistan Contingent participated in the 3rd Youth Olympic Games held at  Buenos Aires, Argentina from 6-18 October 2018. The following were the members of Pakistan Contingent:-

The top three winners were: Russia, China and Japan.

Medal Tally of 3nd Youth Olympic Games

Pakistan Medal Tally in 3rd Youth Olympic Games