The creative minds behind the mascot are Florencia Demaría and Luis Andrés Abbiati from Argentinia, who won the YOG 2012 mascot design contest. After the design submitted by the winning duo had been adapted - in close co-operation with the International Olympic Committee - to the trendy Innsbruck 2012 pixel design, everything was set for the Yoggl's first official appearance at the Snow Festival.

Yoggl, our Alpine chamois, lives in the steep, rocky mountains which tower above the Olympic venues Innsbruck, Seefeld and Kühtai. His name, Yoggl (pronounced like 'YOG'), is based on the typical Tyrolean nickname 'Joggl', which is short for Jakob, a very common name in the Tyrol. Yoggl is the compound of this nickname and the acronym of the Youth Olympic Games, YOG. Through his origins in the Tyrolean Alps he is the perfect symbol to raise awareness for sustainability and respect towards nature.

The chamois represents the way of life and the landscape of the host region, while his colourful pixel outfit merges traditional style with modern elements. Yoggl's sporty appearance reflects the athletic aspect of the Games, and his youthful character will spark the enthusiasm of young people from all over the world for the 1st Winter Youth Olympic Games and the Olympic Values of Excellence, Respect and Friendship. However, Yoggl is above all a lucky charm for the young athletes taking part in the Games and a vivid example of the Innsbruck 2012 motto: "Be part of it!"

You can find photos of Yoggl and the Youth Olympic Games Snow Festival at www.innsbruck2012.com and www.facebook.com/innsbruck2012 . By the way, everyone with a Facebook account can become Yoggl's friend. Simply search for "Yoggl Innsbruck" and find out everything about the official Innsbruck 2012 mascot and what he's been getting up to.