## The Return of the Asian youth games: Bahrain Prepares to host 21 Sports in 2025
After a 12-year hiatus,the Asian Youth Games are making a triumphant return,this time gracing the shores of Bahrain from October 22nd to 31st,2025. [1] This exciting event, organized by the Olympic Council of Asia, promises a showcase of athletic prowess and youthful energy, featuring a diverse range of 21 sports.
The Games will see a blend of traditional sporting giants like athletics, badminton, swimming, golf, and table tennis, alongside emerging disciplines like esports, futsal, and teqball. This eclectic mix reflects the evolving landscape of sports and the growing popularity of non-traditional athletic pursuits.
The journey to Bahrain’s hosting wasn’t without its hurdles. Originally slated for Uzbekistan in 2025, the Games faced a relocation due to construction delays for the Olympic campus. The Olympic Council of Asia, committed to the event’s continuity, swiftly awarded the hosting rights to Bahrain, solidifying a partnership formalized on December 26th, 2024.This revival of the asian Youth Games follows a history marked by both triumphs and setbacks. The inaugural edition in 2009, held in Singapore as part of their bid for the 2010 Youth Olympic Games, saw India emerge as a dominant force, securing 11 medals, including five golds. The 2013 edition in China witnessed a different narrative, with Indian athletes competing under a neutral flag due to a suspension imposed on the Indian Olympic Association.
The 2017 and 2021 editions faced cancellations, first due to logistical challenges and then the global pandemic. these setbacks, however, only served to amplify the anticipation for the 2025 Games, making Bahrain’s hosting all the more notable.
With a diverse range of sports and a history steeped in both challenges and triumphs, the 2025 Asian Youth Games in Bahrain promise to be a truly unforgettable event. The world will be watching as young athletes from across Asia converge to compete, inspire, and write a new chapter in the Games’ legacy.
Bahrain Gearing Up for Asian Youth games: An Interview with Olympic Medalist Priya Sharma
The excitement is palpable. After a 12-year hiatus, the Asian Youth Games are back, and this time, Bahrain is set to host the action-packed event from October 22nd to 31st, 2025. To delve deeper into the significance of these games and their impact on young athletes, we sat down with Priya Sharma, a retired Indian badminton champion and Olympic medalist.
Moderator: Priya, welcome! The Asian Youth Games have had a somewhat tumultuous journey, with cancellations and venue changes. How do you perceive this relaunch, especially given Bahrain stepping in as the host?
Priya Sharma: It’s fantastic news! The Asian Youth Games provide a crucial platform for our young athletes to showcase their talents on an international stage. The fact that Bahrain has stepped up to host after the unfortunate setback in Uzbekistan speaks volumes about their commitment to promoting sports. it’s a testament to the resilience of the Olympic Council of Asia and the power of sport to transcend challenges.
Moderator: Absolutely.Twenty-one sports are on the roster this time,including customary powerhouses like athletics and swimming,but also emerging disciplines like esports and teqball. What are your thoughts on this diverse range of sports?
Priya Sharma: I think it’s brilliant! Reflecting on my career,I’ve seen firsthand how crucial a diverse sporting landscape is. Including emerging sports not only attracts a new generation of athletes but also expands the definition of athleticism. Esports, as a notable example, requires unbelievable hand-eye coordination, strategic thinking, and mental fortitude. It deserves recognition like any other sport.
Moderator: You bring up an engaging point. Traditionally, there’s been a divide between “physical” sports and “e-sports”.do you think the inclusion of esports in events like the AYG will help bridge that gap?
Priya Sharma: I certainly hope so. We need to move past outdated notions of what constitutes “sport.” Skill, dedication, and competition are at the heart of every sport, whether it’s played on a field or a digital platform.
Moderator: Bahrain has a history of hosting international sporting events. Do you think they are well-equipped to handle an event of this magnitude?
Priya Sharma: From what I’ve seen, Bahrain has excellent sporting facilities and a passionate sporting culture.I trust they will put on a memorable Games.
Moderator: We couldn’t agree more. Looking back at your own experiences at the international level, what advice would you give to young athletes gearing up for the 2025 asian Youth Games?
Priya Sharma: Embrace the experience! These Games are an incredible chance to learn, grow, and connect with athletes from diverse backgrounds. Remember to enjoy the journey, push your limits, and never give up on your dreams.
Moderator: Powerful words, Priya. Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us.
What are your thoughts on the return of the Asian Youth Games? Do you think the inclusion of esports is a positive step? Share your opinions in the comments below!
The 2025 Asian Youth Games promise to be a landmark event, inspiring a new generation of athletes and fostering international camaraderie through the power of sport.
