World-Class Athlete and Olympic Hopeful Joins 42nd International Children's Games in San Francisco as Athlete Ambassador

SAN FRANCISCO, March 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The 42nd International Children's Games in San Francisco today announced that world-class athlete and Bay Area native, Lauren Fleshman, joined the organization as an Athlete Ambassador -- the first of many who will be vital to the Games' competitive and cultural feel. Event organizers are enlisting Athlete Ambassadors, international star athletes and role models, to support the youth athletes participating in the various events, including track and field, tennis, swimming, volleyball, soccer, table tennis, basketball and golf, and help raise awareness for the Games.

"The Children's Games provide an opportunity for kids as young as 12 years old to participate in international competition -- that's amazing. I didn't compete internationally until I was at least 18," said Lauren. "The friendly competition is exciting, but the interaction with kids from other countries and cultures can be just as thrilling. It opens your eyes and changes your world view in ways that can't be taught in a classroom."

Lauren is no stranger to international competition. She is a USA National Champion, World Cross Country Team Bronze Medalist and Olympic hopeful for Beijing's women's five kilometer and 1,500 meter races. While attending Stanford, Lauren was one of the most decorated track and field athletes in NCAA history.

"Lauren joining us as our first Athlete Ambassador is a great milestone for the Games," said G. Bradford Solso, chairman of the organizing committee for the International Children's Games in San Francisco. "She embodies so much of what is important about the Games -- diversity, drive and dedication. Not only is she a high caliber athlete, but she also has a great heart."

This year's Games will take place from July 10-15, bringing an estimated 2,000 coaches and athletes (12-15 years of age) from nearly 100 cities and 50 countries around the world. Opening and closing ceremonies, athletic competitions, participant housing and events, and the ICG Festival Village will take place in multiple venues throughout San Francisco, including Golden Gate Park, AT&T Park, Kezar Stadium, University of San Francisco (USF) and San Francisco State University (SFSU).

About the International Children's Games

Endorsed by the International Olympic Committee, the International Children's Games is a premier global, youth athletic event that combines sports and educational programs, cultural exchange opportunities and economic development. The Games serve as a vehicle to promote alliances, friendships and common understanding among children around the world and have done so since 1968. Thirty-one different cities on four continents have hosted previous Games.

For more information, please visit http://www.sficg2008.com.