The Chilean Olympic Committee opened a new multi-sport venue ©COCH

The Chilean Olympic Committee (COCH) has opened a multi-sport arena in Bajos de Mena with the aim of attracting more youngsters to sport.

The COCH has made an investment of CLP26 million (£32,000/$41,000/€35,000) as part of the OlympAmerica project of the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO).

Neven Illic, the President of both the COCH and PASO, attended an inauguration ceremony at the facility to the south of capital city Santiago.

Basketballs and footballs were given away with city and Olympic officials then taking part in a demonstration of basketball 3x3.

"We all know what sport represents in our society," said Ilic. 

"A healthy life, friendship, fellowship and union. 

Neven Ilic, centre, was in attendance at the inauguration ceremony ©COCH
Neven Ilic, centre, was in attendance at the inauguration ceremony ©COCH

"With this arena we want the youth and all children to practice basketball, soccer, volleyball and even skateboarding. 

"From here, who knows, we could take our future champions of our country. 

 "It is a true honour to be able to help all the residents of Bajos de Mena."

COCH director Carolina Sanz also welcomed the new facility.

"We are happy and proud to contribute with a grain of sand to the sporting development of this commune," she said.

"Thank you for welcoming us and I hope you will take care of this beautiful course."