Speedskating legend Koss knighted by King Harald
Norwegian speedskating legend and humanitarian Johann Olav Koss was knighted by King Harald for his efforts on behalf of children around the world.
Johann Olav Koss, the Norwegian speedskating legend and founder of the Right to Play charity, has been named Knight First Class of the Order of St. Olav by King Harald for his humanitarian efforts for youth and children within sports.
“I am extremely proud and moved by this recognition bestowed upon me by the Royal Family,” Koss says. “Right to Play is now working with hundreds of thousands of children all over the world, based on the experience and pleasure I myself had through growing up in Norway as a child.
“This award strengthens my motivation to continue to fight so that children in alll countries may have the right to play and develop freely in a secure society,” Koss says.
Right to Play is the leading international humanitarian and development organization using sport and play as tools to effect behavior and social change.
Right to Play implements programs in 20 countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and South America.
Founded in 2000 by Koss, the four-time Olympic gold medalist and social entrepreneur, Right to Play fosters the hope and skills that are essential to envisioning and realizing a better future.
Source: The Norway Post
