The Olympic Movement was initiated by French Baron, Pierre de Coubertin and with his fellowmen, he created the International Olympic Committee (IOC). His aspiration was for an international movement with shared pursuit of excellence that could contribute to peaceful resolution of international conflict.

To Coubertin, the Olympic Games were not simply an athletic event, but the focal point for a broadly based social movement, which, through the activity of sport and play, would enhance human development and international understanding.

Consequently, National Olympic Committees (NOCs), affiliates of the IOC, have been established in various countries. By this affiliation, the NOCs accept some of the IOC’s constitutional principles. The NOCs are also to promote the Olympic Games and its movement in their respective countries.

The Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC) was established in 1947 and in the following year, Singapore’s first representative was sent to the London Olympics.

The Olympic Movement is recognized by three emblems: the rings, the flag and the motto. The Olympic flag and symbol symbolize the union of the five continents and the meeting of athletes from all over the world at the Olympic Games in a spirit of fair and frank competition and good friendship. The colours of the rings are blue, yellow, black, green and red on a white background. At least one of these colours is found in the flag of every nation of the world.

The Olympic motto, Citius, Altius, Fortius, “Faster, Higher, Stronger” was devised by Father Didon, a teacher and friend of de Coubertin.

For more info, please go to www.ioc.com