The World Games of 2013 in Cali, Colombia marked the 9th edition of this global event, held from July 25 to August 4. With 26 official sports and 5 invitational ones, the Games attracted 3,103 athletes from 91 countries competing in 194 medal events. What made this edition stand out was the overwhelming spectator turnout, surpassing all expectations. The city of Cali, known as the world capital of Salsa, hosted the event with great enthusiasm, selling a total of 520,000 tickets.
Italy emerged as the leading nation in the medal count, securing 18 gold medals, followed closely by Russia and France. Notable was Colombia’s performance, clinching 8 gold medals, including a celebrated victory in Salsa by a local pair. The event witnessed a record number of participating National Olympic Committees, with countries like Germany and Russia setting up dedicated meeting spaces for their athletes. The Games utilized 25 competition venues across Cali.
Marcel Hassemeier from Germany and Magalie Rousseau from France emerged as the standout athletes, each winning four gold medals in Lifesaving competitions. Hassemeier’s exceptional performance earned him the title of the first-ever IWGA Athlete of the Year. The Games also saw the debut of Beach Handball in the official sports program, while bidding farewell to Rugby Sevens, which became an Olympic discipline in 2016.
Media coverage of the event was extensive, with 915 journalists from 36 countries covering the Games. The host broadcaster, RCN, produced 100 TV hours of content, reaching audiences in over 100 countries. Social media platforms played a significant role in disseminating news about the Games, with Facebook and Twitter being actively used by the Local Organising Committee and the IWGA.
The Games promoted the theme of environmental protection under the slogan “Fair Play to the Planet,” emphasizing sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint. The official opening, attended by dignitaries including IOC President Jacques Rogge, set the stage for an eventful competition. The mascot, inspired by a native bird species, captured the spirit of the Games, engaging young children with creative activities like coloring pages.
As the Games came to a close with a lively salsa party, the legacy of TWG 2013 underscored a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and global sportsmanship. With a focus on inclusivity, exemplary performances, and a vibrant cultural exchange, the 2013 World Games in Cali left a lasting impact on the international sports community, setting a benchmark for future editions.
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