2019 South American Beach Games in Rosario
The 2019 South American Beach Games (Spanish: Juegos Suramericanos de Playa), officially known as the IV South American Beach Games, marked a historic milestone for Argentine sports. Held in the city of Rosario, this international multi-sport event brought together the finest beach athletes from across the continent to compete in a variety of sand and water-based disciplines.
This edition was particularly significant as it represented the first time Argentina hosted the event. The games took place from March 14 to March 23, 2019, transforming the coastal landscape of Rosario into a hub of athletic excellence and regional camaraderie.
Key Facts
- Host City: Rosario, Argentina
- Dates: March 14 – 23, 2019
- Participating Nations: 14 members of ODESUR
- Scope: 13 different sports
- Opening Ceremony Venue: Monumento Nacional a la Bandera
- Opening Official: Mauricio Macri
- Torch Lighter: Cecilia Carranza Saroli
Event Organization and Ceremonies
The games were inaugurated on March 14 by Mauricio Macri. The opening ceremony was held at the iconic Monumento Nacional a la Bandera, a site of great national importance in Argentina. To symbolize the start of the competition, the torch was lit by Cecilia Carranza Saroli, signaling the beginning of ten days of intense competition.
The event was organized under the umbrella of the Organización Deportiva Suramericana (ODESUR), the sporting body responsible for the coordination of multi-sport events in South America. All 14 ODESUR member nations were expected to participate, ensuring a comprehensive representation of the continent's athletic talent.
Sports and Disciplines
The 2019 games featured a diverse program consisting of 13 sports, blending traditional beach athletics with water-based endurance and skill events. The competitions were designed to test the versatility of athletes in challenging outdoor environments.
Sand-Based Sports
- Beach handball
- Beach football
- Beach rugby
- Beach tennis
- Beach volleyball
- Skateboard
Water and Coastal Sports
- Canoeing
- Coastal rowing
- Open water swimming
- Sailing
- Stand Up Paddle Surf
- Triathlon
- Water skiing
Event Summary
The IV South American Beach Games served as a bridge between the 2014 games in Vargas and the subsequent 2023 games in Santa Marta. The event highlighted Rosario's capacity to host large-scale international competitions and showcased the growth of beach sports in the region.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | IV South American Beach Games |
| Host City | Rosario, Argentina |
| Duration | March 14 – 23, 2019 |
| Number of Nations | 14 |
| Number of Sports | 13 |
| Governing Body | ODESUR |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where were the 2019 South American Beach Games held?
The games were hosted in Rosario, Argentina, marking the first time the city and country hosted this specific event.
How many countries participated in the event?
All 14 member nations of the Organización Deportiva Suramericana (ODESUR) were expected to compete.
Which sports were included in the 2019 program?
The event featured 13 sports, including beach volleyball, beach football, beach handball, beach rugby, beach tennis, canoeing, coastal rowing, open water swimming, sailing, skateboard, stand up paddle surf, triathlon, and water skiing.
Who lit the torch during the opening ceremony?
The torch was lit by Cecilia Carranza Saroli during the ceremony at the Monumento Nacional a la Bandera.
When did the games take place?
The competition began on March 14, 2019, and concluded on March 23, 2019.