The World Games 2013 05/08/2013

The World Games 2013 are history. After eleven days of competitions and celebrations in Cali, COL, the different stakeholders in this multi-sport event can take stock of their respective experiences.

The athletes are able to put their results into perspective. Having qualified for 2013 Cali constituted an achievement in itself, as the contingent of each sport was limited to the best only. The face-off against peers at the highest level of competition now allows each athlete to make a full assessment of his or her potential and form.

The hosts and organisers can truthfully say that their plan has worked to perfection. They have succeeded in putting their distinctive mark on an event held in the most festive atmosphere and with the broadest civic support. Public engagement in The World Games 2013 Cali seemed greater than in any of the previous editions. And this more than compensated for the few mishaps or shortcomings.

The sanctioning body, the International World Games Association, announces that it has upped the worldwide profile of the games further, with more broadcast coverage going out to more countries than ever before. IOC support to the games was at a peak too. Something that was best reflected by IOC President Jacques Rogge and three candidates who are in the running to become his successor attending the Opening Ceremony.

The International Federations, too, are able to make an analysis of their sport’s participation in The World Games 2013. The governing bodies for squash and softball, both on the ballot as potential Olympic sports in 2020, looked at their public attendance figures in the context of their campaigns.

“What a three days we have had. Such fantastic squash, so competitive, a really great atmosphere and some real surprise results. There is something special about being part of multi-sport events – like in the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games – the crowds were in awe, the players loved it, and I did too.

“All the conversation was about the Olympic vote next month and how squash would be a great addition if we succeed for 2020. No doubt on that score!”

World Squash Federation Manager Major Maniam 

"Events like The World Games provide important opportunities and platforms for women's sports to be showcased, in order to display the work ethic, excitement and extraordinary skills involved in the sports that women like to play like softball.

"We are hoping the IOC will find a place for baseball and softball at the Olympic Games in 2020, and in doing so, send a message to girls and young women everywhere that the Olympic Games and the values of the Movement are for them, and give more girls the opportunity to strive for a place in the Olympics, the pinnacle for every young athlete."

World Softball Fderation President Don Porter