LAKE PLACID — The 2019 International Children’s Winter Games in Lake Placid are just four months away. Modeled after the Olympics, the Games are scheduled for January 6-11, 2019, in Lake Placid.

Lake Placid will be the first United States city ever to host the International Children’s Winter Games and competition for youth, ages 12 to 15. Geared toward friendly competition and international cultural diversity, competition will be held in 31 events over eight (short track was dropped) different sports of alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, figure skating, freestyle skiing, ice hockey, snowboard and long track speed skating.

“I am very excited to be a part of these games and watch the plans come together,” race director Sue Cameron said. “I’m looking forward to not only the sporting competitions, but the cultural exchanges that will be integral to the event.”

Entry into the winter Games is by invitation only and to date, almost 600 athletes from 38 cities, representing 16 countries are expected to participate. In addition to sport competition, Lake Placid will offer cultural exchange events and entertainment programs to help create lasting friendships and memories.

The alpine and freestyle skiing and snowboarding will be held at Whiteface Mountain, in Wilmington, while the Nordic ski events are slated for the Olympic Jumping Complex. The Olympic speed skating oval will host long track speed skating, while the Olympic Center’s Herb Brooks Arena is the site of opening and closing ceremonies, figure skating and hockey.

“As our winter event season rapidly approaches, these winter Games are taking shape with cooperation from our sport organizers as well as our volunteer committee members,” ORDA’s director of events Jeff Potter said. “Our goal is to provide an opportunity for these young athletes from around the globe to create lasting friendships and memories through sport.”

Volunteers are still needed for the event. If you would like to volunteer, contact Cameron at scameron@roostadk.com. A public information meeting has been schedule for Oct. 11. The meeting will provide an update on the Games and volunteer opportunities.