When you think about a major sporting competition that comes every four years, the Olympic Games probably come to mind. But there is another international competition to enjoy — and it’s arriving in July in Birmingham, Alabama. The World Games will bring thousands of world-class athletes in a variety of sports and competitions. You can witness firsthand the action and appreciate what these talented athletes can do.
An Overview
The World Games have some similarities to the Olympics. Firstly, it is held every four years. In this case, the games occur the year after the Olympics. Secondly, a different city somewhere in the world serves as the host of the competitions. Like the Olympics, competitors from across the globe take part in the contests. For instance, more than 3,600 athletes from more than 100 countries will compete this year.
The games include more than 30 sports. Moreover, the World Games span 11 days and will award more than 600 gold, silver, and bronze medals to the top athletes. The first World Games took place in 1981 in Santa Clara, California.
Sports to Enjoy
Athletes will participate in one of six sports categories. These are Artistic Sports, Ball Sports, Martial Arts, Precision Sports, Strength Sports, and Trend Sports. The Artistic Sports category has dance, gymnastics, and rollers sports. Ball Sports is the biggest category. For example, it includes common and popular sports such as handball, fistball, flag football, lacrosse, squash, and softball.
In the Martial Arts category, you can watch karate, kickboxing, sumo, and others. Precision Sports will bring you archery, billiards, bowling, and boules. Meanwhile, Strength Sports are powerlifting and tug of war. Finally, the Trend Sports category features 10 competitions, including canoe, flying disc, and waterski.
Qualifying
To take part in the World Games, athletes must qualify through preliminary competition. Athletes and teams must show a level of success and prowess to reach this 11-day event. The qualifying starts well before the World Games.
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The Schedule
The World Games begins on July 7 with the ever-popular Opening Ceremonies in Protective Stadium in Birmingham. Here, the athletes and fans will celebrate achievements and the spectacle of coming together to participate from around the world. Tickets to the Opening Ceremonies are available and range from $39 to $69. On Friday, July 8, men’s lacrosse, dance sports, and karate competitions highlight the day. The action is continuous through Sunday, July 17. The final competition is Korfball, from 2 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. local time. The Closing Ceremonies wrap up the World Games in grand fashion from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets sell for $39 to $69.
You can get your sports fix this summer while watching some of the world’s best athletes. Check out some of your favorite sports — and some new ones — this July 7–17.
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