Commonwealth Games History

An intergovernmental organisation of fifty four members, Commonwealth of Nations works for promotion of common values such as democracy, human rights, free trade, individual liberty and world peace. These very values of the organisation laid the foundation for Commonwealth Games in the year 1930 when it was first organized in Hamiton, Ontario in Canada. The history of Commonwealth Games has it that the games have been an initiative to bring together the member nations of Commonwealth and to increase goodwill and fellowship amongst them. The games first played in 1930 were the final outcome of the long discussions that were held between Nations of Commonwealth for over 30 years. Commonwealth Games history has names of 11 countries that participated with a total of 400 athletes in the games. The first Commonwealth Games witnessed teams coming from England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Bermuda, British Guiana, Newfoundland and South Africa.

The events held during the first ever sporting event of Commonwealth included Track and field athletics, rowing, wrestling, swimming and lawn bowls the games popular in the member countries. Held in 1930 for the first time Commonwealth Games continues to spread the accordance till now. The games were held once in every four years except for the years 1942 and 1946 due to World War II.

The Commonwealth Games history uncovers the reason for it being called "Friendly Games" for long. The games round the world are named on their geographic or climatic factors such as Australian open, African Games and so on whereas Commonwealth Games are founded to spread bonhomie and thus are named after the organisation that works in the same direction. At the event the athletes share a common language and compete with the sole aim of enjoying the sport they love. With the success of this event worldwide, many amendments were made in the list of sports included however, one of the most vibrant changes was the one that happened in the 1998 games. In 1998 games held in Kuala Lumpur the Commonwealth Games Federation allowed team sports for the first time and thus opened up gates to a wide range of sports and athletes around the world.

The next Commonwealth Games in New Delhi 2010 is around the corner and the world is waiting eagerly for the spectacular display of sporting abilities. The Commonwealth Games member countries are geared up to inspire millions to strive for excellence and to spread brotherhood amidst their clan.