(ATR) Positive reviews of the 11th edition of the Central American Games held in Managua, Nicaragua could help the capital city earn more sporting events moving forward.
The two-week competition concluded in Managua on Dec.17. After showcasing 30 sports, 26 of which are in the Olympics, the city is left with several sports facilities that could pave the way to future sports investments and events.
Following the second edition of the Central American Games to be staged in Nicaragua, the praise received by organizers has fueled contemplation of potential Central American and Caribbean multi-sport events.
The Central American and Caribbean Games are already scheduled for Barranquilla, Colombia and Panama City, Panama in 2018 and 2022, respectively. Olympic champion triple jumper Irving Saladino of Panama attended Managua 2017 as the country’s chef de mission. Saladino says Managua "is ready to take the next step".
The Central American Sports Organization (ORDECA) – founded in July 1972 – now has seven member countries (Panama, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras and Belize) and is responsible for the regional games. Guatemala finished atop the medal table in Managua.
The President of ORDECA and the Nicaragua Olympic Committee, Emmett Lang, reiterated the crucial role of the Nicaraguan government on the success of the games that must be marked "as a dividing line" in the history of regional sports.
Lang, who replaced honorary IOC member Melitón Sánchez to lead ORDECA, estimated that the event will supply the NOC with some of the most modern sports facilities in the region. The event could also provide more opportunities "with more collaboration and investment" for sport in the region.
International Bodybuilding Federation President Rafael Santonja praised organizers on the inclusion of his sport at the event which will also appear at the Lima 2019 Pan American Games.
Nicaragua was able to reach its medal predictions, earning third place in the standings with a record medal haul for the country.
Vote now for your favorite sports city! The Sports City Poll closes Dec. 31. The poll ranks the top 50 cities most strongly associated with sport. Results January 2018.
Written by Miguel Hernandez
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