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Kendrick J. Farris (USA) Nanjing 2014 YOG Athlete Role Model

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) today announced the list of 37 Athlete Role Models (ARMs) who will attend the 2nd Summer Youth Olympic Games (YOG) from 16 to 28 August in Nanjing, China.

We are happy to announce that the Athlete Role Model to represent Weightlifting at the YOG is Kendrick J. Farris (USA). He participated in two Olympic Games: Beijing 2008 and London 2012, Silver Medallist at the 2013 Summer Universiade, Kendrick J. Farris was Pan-American Champion in 2010.

As Athlete Role Model, he will aim to inspire, mentor and take part in activities with young athletes during a five day programme hosted by the IOC.

Kendrick J. Farris will be accessible to the athletes both in the Youth Olympic Village and during a series of educational activities and workshops that will focus on areas such as skills development, how to lead healthy lifestyles, environment and social responsibility and Olympism.

How do you feel as recently appointed ARM for the YOG, what does it mean to you?

Kendrick J. Farris (USA): It makes me feel like what I’ve always set out to do which is inspire others, to love, work hard, and show people how to be themselves is spreading through the sport of weightlifting and hopefully into their lives as well. This opportunity to spend time with these young people means a great deal to me because I want them to understand what lies ahead for them on an off the platform.

What will be your main target as ARM during the YOG, what do you want to achieve?

Kendrick J. Farris (USA): I hope I’m able to show these young people how to train smarter, how to choose what competitions they should peak for, and most importantly how to treat others around them.

What would be your most important message to the Youth athletes?

Kendrick J. Farris (USA): That your energy is real and effect the atmosphere, your words are powerful and determine how you view your world, and you are in control of your destiny.