World Games

Overview

The World Games are an international multi-sport event, organized by the International World Games Association (IWGA), that includes sports which are not contested in the Olympic Games. The World Games are held every four years, one year after the Summer Olympic Games. The next World Games will be held in Birmingham, Alabama, USA in 2022.

History

The World Games were first held in 1981 in Santa Clara, California, USA, and have been held every four years since. The event was initially organized by the General Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) and later taken over by the IWGA in 1982.

A wide shot of a stadium filled with athletes from different countries, flags waving, and the World Games logo prominently displayed.

Sports

The sports contested at the World Games are those not included in the Olympic program. Some of these sports aspire to become Olympic sports, while others have been Olympic sports in the past. The sports are grouped into categories: Artistic and Dance Sports, Ball Sports, Martial Arts, Precision Sports, Strength Sports, and Trend Sports.

Artistic and Dance Sports

Artistic and Dance Sports include sports like Gymnastics, DanceSport, and Synchronized Swimming. These sports require a high level of skill, precision, and grace.

Ball Sports

Ball Sports include sports like Beach Handball, Korfball, and Racquetball. These sports require teamwork, strategy, and physical endurance.

Martial Arts

Martial Arts include sports like Karate, Muay Thai, and Sumo. These sports require strength, skill, and discipline.

Precision Sports

Precision Sports include sports like Archery, Billiards, and Boules. These sports require focus, precision, and patience.

Strength Sports

Strength Sports include sports like Powerlifting, Tug of War, and Arm Wrestling. These sports require physical strength, endurance, and determination.

Trend Sports

Trend Sports include sports like Flying Disc, Inline Hockey, and Wakeboarding. These sports are often newer, and require a combination of skill, creativity, and athleticism.

Organization

The World Games are organized by the International World Games Association (IWGA), which is recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IWGA consists of International Sports Federations (IFs) which govern sports included in the World Games program.

Participating Nations

Over 100 nations participate in the World Games. The nations are represented by their respective National Olympic Committees (NOCs). The number of participating nations has grown steadily since the first World Games in 1981.