Malta is set to host the 39th edition of the World Medical and Health Games which will take place between the 16th and 23nd June. The Medigames, as they are affectionately called within medical circles, have become the most famous world health event open to members of the medical and health professions since its inception in 1978.
Approximately, 1,500 participants are expected to descend onto Malta during this time to participate in the International Sports Medicine Symposium whilst around 1,200 athletes, representing around 40 countries are expected to take part in one of the twenty-six disciplines being hosted on our island.
"The World Medical and Health Games are an opportunity for participants of all levels to compete together and to play their favourite sports in an atmosphere of friendship and excitement. Each year over a thousand people, representing over 40 countries, take part in this sporting bonanza", Pierre Chicco, Sport Director.
A WEEK OF SPORT
The games will see twenty-six disciplines being practiced. The organisers have roped in the support of local sporting bodies and clubs who will be managing the logistical aspect of each event.
Sports include Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Beach Volley, Clay pigeon shooting, Target shooting, Cross Country, Chess, Cycling, Fencing, Football, Petanque (Boċċi), Powerlifting, Golf, Half Marathon, Mountain Biking, Open Water Swimming, Orienteering, Judo, Sailing, Swimming, Table Tennis, Squash, Tennis, Triathlon, Volleyball.
"This year we have reintroduced Fencing and Basketball, whilst we have introduced Orienteering, Petanque and Sailing - the latter being an obvious choice being surrounded by these clear waters and great wind conditions. Sailing was definitely not going to be left out. We also introduced Kid Medigames, where children under 16 years can participate in a variety of activities (athletics, tennis, rugby, judo) which will help them learn the values of the Olympic spirit such as friendship, respect and team spirit," continued to explain Pierre Chicco.
"The local sports organizations were very helpful and supportive to this largest sporting event to be ever held in Malta and are very much looking forward and motivated to see it through," Jonathan Barbara, Events Co-Ordinator.
Registration for events is open to all state certified medical professionals and medical / health students.
All events are scheduled to take place between Sunday and Friday and daily Award Ceremonies will take place at the Games Centre in the evening. The Games will be closed off on Friday night when the closing ceremony will take place.
The 39th World Medical and Health Games are being supported by the Malta Tourism Authority, Air Malta, Sport Malta, MPE DMC Malta and Conventions Malta.