The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Mascots

They will welcome Olympians and Paralympians when they arrive in Vancouver and Whistler.

They will be the most popular photo opportunity among Games spectators.

They will be among the most popular Vancouver 2010 gifts for family and friends at home – in the form of toys, T-shirts, trading pins and dozens of other souvenirs.

Since the first official mascot made an appearance at the 1972 Summer Games in Munich, mascots have become one of the most popular and memorable ambassadors of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. From a dachshund to a seahorse to snow owls, the Olympic and Paralympic Games mascots bring humour and light-hearted fun to the Games experience and help provide a warm welcome to athletes and visitors from around the world and spark excitement, laughter and cheers from children and fans.

The mascots help tell the unique story of each Games. They are often a reflection of the history, land and culture of the host region and country. And they also embody the ideals of Olympism and the Paralympic Movement, bringing to life the spirit of friendship, fair play and participation.

The introduction of the mascot is one of the highlights in the lead-up to the Games. Past mascots have shown great ingenuity, imagination and artistry. From Munich’s dachshund “Waldi” to Montreal’s beaver “Amik”, early mascots were based on animals that were unique to the host countries. Barcelona surprised many by introducing Cobi – a cheeky dog with an avant-garde look, created by master designer Javier Mariscal. Cobi has been followed by a variety of mascots, based on humans, animals, and both mythical and imaginary creatures.

Creativity and personality are always the hallmark of great Olympic and Paralympic mascots. The role of the mascot has evolved over the years, being used today in a vast array of applications, poses and paraphernalia. Designers of the first mascots could not have imagined the possible uses for their creations – now featured on everything from collector pins to vinyl toys. The reach and appeal of the mascot increases with each edition of the Games as they try to bring the Olympic and Paralympic spirit to every corner of the world.