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The Micronesian Games is a quadrennial multi-sport event, first conceived to foster unity and friendly competition among the diverse nations and territories of Micronesia. The Games served not only as a platform for athletic prowess but also as a celebration of cultural exchange and shared heritage among the Micronesian people.

The inaugural Micronesian Games took place in Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, in 1969, drawing participants from the Federated States of Micronesia (Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae), the Marshall Islands, Palau, and the Northern Mariana Islands.

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The first Micronesian Games included sports such as baseball, basketball, canoing, tennis, table tennis, volleyball, swimming and track and field. In addition, a unique sport was created, the "Micronesian All-Around Competition," to represent the traditional, historical and cultural ties that bind all the islands of the western Pacific. This event included traditional activities such as coconut tree climbing, coconut husking, spear throwing, swimming and diving.

Although the first event in 1969 was very successful, there was not another Micronesian Games held until 1990, again in Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands. Since then, the event has been held every four years.

Hosts

Over subsequent editions, the Micronesian Games evolved. The Games expanded to include various sports, reflecting the diverse interests and strengths of the Micronesian athletes. The number of countries and territories has expanded from the original six. The current list of participating countries, states and territories are: Guam, Palau, Northern Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands, Pohnpei, Yap, Nauru, Chuuk, Kosrae, Kiribati

Over time, the event has grown in stature, providing a valuable opportunity for athletes from these island nations to showcase their talents on a regional stage. This expansion not only enhanced the competitive spirit of the Games but also reinforced the cultural bonds that unite the Micronesian islanders.

Trivia

• Canoe sailing was held at the first Micronesian Games, but dropped due to lack of interest.
• All the participants of the Micronesian Games also take part in the Pacific Games, although the individual Federated States of Micronesia compete as a unified country.

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Related Pages

• The Pacific Games — for countries around the South Pacific. It is held every four years and began in 1963.
• About Sport in the Federated States of Micronesia
• Other International Multi-Events
• Multi-Sport Events (Games) Calendar