1961 Bolivarian Games
The IV Bolivarian Games (Spanish: Juegos Bolivarianos) were a multi-sport event held between December 3–16, 1961, at the Estadio Municipal in Barranquilla, Colombia. The Games were organized by the Bolivarian Sports Organization (ODEBO). Bolivia was the only eligible country not to send a delegation.
| Host city | Barranquilla, Atlántico |
|---|---|
| Country | Colombia |
| Nations | 5 |
| Opening | December 3, 1961 |
| Closing | December 16, 1961 |
| Opened by | Alberto Lleras Camargo |
| Athlete's Oath | Rafael Cotes |
| Torch lighter | Jaime Aparicio |
| Main venue | Estadio Municipal |
The Games were officially opened by Colombian president Alberto Lleras Camargo. Torch lighter was hurdler Jaime Aparicio. The athlete's oath was sworn by local athlete Rafael Cotes.
A detailed history of the early editions of the Bolivarian Games between 1938 and 1989 was published in a book written (in Spanish) by José Gamarra Zorrilla, former president of the Bolivian Olympic Committee, and first president (1976-1982) of ODESUR. Gold medal winners from Ecuador were published by the Comité Olímpico Ecuatoriano.