Swimming legend Michael Phelps on Monday became the first official Ambassador of the Youth Olympic Games (YOG), which are held for the first time this year in Singapore.

The 16-time Olympic medallist, visiting Vancouver to catch some of the Winter Games action, will support the Youth Olympics by encouraging the involvement of young people around the world.

"The Youth Olympic Games is an excellent initiative, not only for the athletes competing but also those who are inspired to get into sport and be more active," said Phelps. "I am delighted that I have been given the opportunity to become the first official Ambassador of the Youth Olympic Games, and can?t wait to get working with the YOG team to promote the first event this summer."

International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge added: "We are delighted that Michael is supporting our efforts to launch the Youth Olympic Games.

"Preparations for the inaugural edition in Singapore are on track and the IOC is looking forward to welcoming 3,600 athletes to Singapore this summer."

The YOG mission is to inspire young people worldwide to participate in sport and to adopt and live by the Olympic values.