Maybe he was impressed by the six- gold triumph from Chinese swimmer Tang Yi, Michael Phelps turned his attention to the ongoing first Youth Olympic Games (YOG) though he was not in Singapore. 'The Youth Olympic Games is important, not just for the competition, but also the CEP,' said the 25-year-old American swimming giant in an e-mail interview with The Straits Times. 'It is something that has never been done before, but could have a lasting impact on the participants.' he added. As he mentioned, CEP referred to the Culture and Education Programme, which was introduced into the Youth Olympics slated for Aug. 14 to 26. The programme stressed the Olympic value of excellence, friendship and respect. It would enable some 3,600 youths to learn about Olympism, interact with other athletes, and to celebrate the diversity of the world cultures. Although he was fiercely competitive these days at the Pan Pacific Championships, Phelps said it was meaningful to pay attention to the youths' gala. 'I became a YOG Ambassador because it's important to inspire young people around the world to participate in sport. It's also important for them to be exposed to the various cultures around the world, and understand the importance of Olympic values.' He also believed it would put the athletes in good stead for the future and there was more to the Olympics than just winning. 'It will play a big role in their life on and off the field of competition.' said Phelps. 