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On 9 February, as thousands of spectators enjoyed a star-studded countdown ceremony at Gangneung Hockey Arena, the IOC offi cially invited the National Olympic Committees and their athletes to take part in the 2018 Olympic Winter Games.“The Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 will open up new horizons,” said IOC President Thomas Bach, in a video message broadcast to the stadium. “PyeongChang will transform into a hub for Asian winter sports. For the fi rst time, the magic of Olympic sport on snow and ice will come to the Republic of Korea.”The crowds were treated to a stunning programme of entertainment that showcased the host region’s rich cultural and sporting heritage, and included a dance performance from the Gangwon Province Art Association.The Olympic fl ag was then raised, before the Republic of Korea’s Acting President and Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn gave an address to all in attendance, followed by a speech delivered by IOC Member and PyeongChang 2018 Coordination Commission Chair Gunilla Lindberg.The evening reached a dramatic climax with a light show symbolising the fl ame of the Olympic torch, which was offi cially unveiled along with the torchbearer uniforms.To coincide with the milestone, tickets for the Games offi cially went on sale, while a day earlier, Worldwide Olympic Partner Omega – the offi cial timekeeper of the Olympic Games – unveiled the countdown clock for PyeongChang 2018 at Seoul’s City Hall Plaza.SHARE THE PASSIONAbove The one-year-to-go ceremony showcased the culture of the host region