TheSportsCampus

Glasgow is well placed to build on the legacy of the Commonwealth Games and host the world's best young athletes as it puts itself in the running to secure the 2018 Youth Olympic Games, according to Lord Smith, the Chair of Glasgow 2014.

The city is being considered by the British Olympic Association (BOA) as the UK's sole bid to host the Games in 2018. A decision will be made over the coming four weeks whether or not a formal UK bid is made to the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

With preparations and planning for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games on track and on budget, the city will have the sporting infrastructure as well as the skills and expertise in place to host the Youth Olympic Games.

It is estimated that the Youth Olympic Games will attract in the region of 3,600 athletes aged between 15 and 18, who will compete over 12-days for medals in all 28 summer Olympic sports.

Lord Smith, Chair of Glasgow 2014, said: "We are delighted that Glasgow has put itself forward as a possible host for this world-class sports festival for young people. The city is proving itself to be a very capable and enthusiastic base for major sporting events as it continues to gear up for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

"Glasgow can clearly demonstrate its credentials as a world-class sporting city, with international-standard facilities, a skilled workforce as well as the passion to stage the Youth Olympic Games. A successful bid by the city will ensure the legacy of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games will be tangible for many years to come."

The Youth Olympic Games were first hosted by Singapore in 2010, and will take place in Nanjing in China in 2014. The BOA has until 1 March 2012 to decide whether or not to make a formal bid for the Games to the IOC.