History of Asian Games

Asian Games

History of Asian Games

Asian games are the second largest multi-sport event after the Olympics.  Asian Games are held ever four years. Before Asain Game, these game were known as Far Eastern Games. They  are also known as Asiad.  From 1951 to 1978, the Games were organized by the Asian Games Federation (AGF), but since 1982 they have been organized by the Asian Olympic Council (OCA).  So far only nine countries have got the chance to host these games.

Asain Games

 Foundation laid down Far Eastern games

 Before the Asian Games, these games were known as Far Eastern Games.  For the first time, these games were organized in Manila.  After that this game continued to be held till 1934.  After the start of the Sino-Japanese War in 1937, the Games in Osaka (Japan) in 1938 were cancelled.  After the World War, the Olympic Games held in London in 1948 once again discussed the introduction of the Far Eastern Games.  Guru Dutt Sondhi, the then representative of the Indian International Olympic Committee, was not in favor of the restoration of these games.  He proposed to the sports representatives to organize them as Asian Games in a new format which was accepted by all.

 Many Asian nations gained independence after World War II.  The newly independent Asian countries supported the organization of a competition through which Asian dominance could be shown to the world.  The Asian Athletics Federation also put its stamp on it and formed a committee to draft it.  On 13 February 1949, the Asian Athletics Federation had its first meeting with the Asian Games Federation.  In the meeting, it was announced to go to the first Asian Games in 1950.  But due to the structural preparations, these games had to be moved forward.

 The first Asian Games were held in New Delhi

 The capital of India got the distinction of hosting the first Asian Games.  These games were organized from 4 to 11 March.  489 players from 11 countries presented their challenge in 57 events of eight games.  Japan was not allowed to participate in the London Olympics and did not participate in the founding meeting of the Asian Games Federation but did participate in these games.  But Korea did not attend this meeting due to Korea war.  These games were inaugurated by the first President of India, Rajendra Prasad and the event took place at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.

 India ranked second

 In these games, the Indian player performed brilliantly, winning a total of 51 medals including 15 gold, 16 silver and 20 bronze medals and captured the second place.  Japan topped a total of 60 medals, including 24 gold.  Iran finished third with a total of 16 medals, including eight gold.