Alex Popov has suffered a rare defeat: as delegate to the Moscow bid, he succumbed with fellow Russians to the victory of Singapore in the race to host the first Youth Olympic Games in 2010.

The result was unveiled by the IOC President, Jacques Rogge, at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne. Singapore beat Moscow in the final by 53 votes to 44.

'This is a key moment for the Olympic Movement', said Rogge. 'Singapore has put together a very exciting project. Hosting the Youth Olympic Games for the first time is a great responsibility, and I have every confidence in the team in Singapore. I have no doubt that their professionalism and enthusiasm will be instrumental in the staging of successful Youth Olympic Games in 2010. The Youth Olympic Games are the flagship of the IOC’s determination to reach out to young people. These Games will not only be about competition. They will also be the platform through which youngsters will learn about the Olympic values and the benefits of sport, and will share their experiences with other communities around the globe. We are looking forward to joining in the celebration in Singapore in 2010.'

All very well and doubtless it will all be a great deal of fun for all concerned. But the never-ending growth of opportunity in sport that provides many a journey around the world for grown-up sports politicians, has another side: Olympics, World Juniors, European Juniors, and all of those and more in senior waters too for the best of youth - makes you wonder when they might get some schooling in, not to mention the effect such competition might have on the longevity of athletes who might well be fed up of it all by the time they turn 20.