Istanbul has its origins in antiquity but like the Olympic Games themselves, it is all about youth, about hope and about the future. Istanbul relies on the enthusiasm of its young people. Nearly a quarter of the population are aged between 5 and 14. It is on their behalf that the city makes its bid. Excited with the hopes of being the host of the 2004 Athletes Games, Istanbul’s young men and women are a boon to a much stronger Olympic Movement in the region and this grand undertaking would be an inspiration to them.