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Olympic Ice: Kids Sweep Tributes for Stars
21 Feb
Summary
- Young children serve as 'flower kids' during Olympic figure skating events.
- They collect plush toys and flowers thrown onto the ice after performances.
- Organizers hope the experience inspires them to become future Olympians.
Young skaters from across Italy, aged 12 and under, are serving as 'flower kids' at the Olympic figure skating competitions. Their primary role involves swiftly clearing the ice of the numerous plush toys and flowers thrown by the audience in appreciation of the skaters' performances. This unique opportunity allows them to witness world-class athletes like Ilia Malinin and Matteo Rizzo up close.
These children, dressed in coordinated outfits, are inspired by the skaters' performances and poise under pressure. They meticulously follow a rotation system to ensure everyone gets a chance to step onto the ice. The collected gifts are bagged and labeled for the athletes; unclaimed items are donated to local charities, including children's hospitals. Coaches believe the experience cultivates passion, even if it's too early to identify future Olympians.
