1981 Bolivarian Games
The IX Bolivarian Games (Spanish: Juegos Bolivarianos) were a multi-sport event held between December 4–14, 1981, at the Estadio de Barquisimeto in Barquisimeto, Venezuela. The Games were organized by the Bolivarian Sports Organization (ODEBO). In February 1980, Barquisimeto was chosen to substitute the initial host city Lima in Perú. The Comité Olímpico Peruano renounced because of financial problems.
| Host city | Barquisimeto, Lara |
|---|---|
| Country | Venezuela |
| Nations | 6 |
| Athletes | 1516 |
| Events | 18 sports |
| Opening | December 4, 1981 |
| Closing | December 14, 1981 |
| Opened by | Luís Herrera Campins |
| Torch lighter | Carmen Militza Pérez |
| Main venue | Estadio de Barquisimeto |
The Games were officially opened by Venezuelan president Luís Herrera Campins. Torch lighter was fencer Carmen Militza Pérez.
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.
A critical comment was published.