YMCA WORLD CHALLENGE 2018 – Final wrap up

Date: 25 July 2018


Dear YMCA friends,

A huge congratulations to every YMCA who participated in this year’s World Challenge. It was a breathtaking display of energy and effort shared with our communities everywhere.

To quote the famous Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the Olympics movement and who’s final home is now the offices of the World YMCA in Geneva, “the most important thing is to take part…”

This year events took place in every part of the world. I am proud to announce that we had over ten thousand people participating, reaching tens of thousands more and that together we achieved nearly 70,000kms. A fantastic result from so many, for so many more. We connected as part of a real global community.


On the photo: Carrickfergus , Nepal, Marija Robe, Singapore 

Throughout the World Council we had the pleasure to recognise some YMCAs for their efforts in this year’s World Challenge. There was excitement each day as they were announced and one YMCA even made their local television news for receiving their award.

HERE you can see the full presentation and details about their efforts.

I’m sure you will agree these – and all of your events – are creative and inspiring. This is GREAT! The World Challenge really works!

The YMCA World Challenge is an integral part of our strategy to gain more profile and reputation for YMCAs everywhere. You can add Saturday June 8th, 2019 into your diaries and plans for the next World Challenge.

A reminder that all the files are in the public folder HERE.

Thank you and well run!

Johan Vilhelm Eltvik Secretary General