Today marks the one-year anniversary of the inaugural World Urban Games 2019, an event that blended competitive urban sport and a festival of youth music, art and culture in the heart of Budapest, Hungary.
The ultimate celebration of new-generation sports forged by the spirit of youth, the Games welcomed over 50,000 spectators to the Urban Games Park to witness some of the best urban athletes in the world showcase their skill, style and power. From Misaki Katayama of Japan making history by taking home the first gold medal of the World Urban Games in World Skate’s roller freestyle competition, to the USA showcasing their prowess in flying disc, the atmosphere was phenomenal throughout all three days of competition.
Meanwhile, sports like the International Basketball Federation’s (FIBA) 3×3 basketball and International Gymnastics Federation’s (FIG) parkour charmed crowds with their-fast paced and exhilarating action.
“The inaugural edition of the World Urban Games was an incredible celebration of urban sports, creativity and culture. We set out to not only showcase urban sport, but to inspire a more active society. I believe we achieved this and much more. Of course, I must also thank the Budapest Local Organising Committee for its tireless efforts in helping turn the dream of the World Urban Games into a reality,” said GAISF President Raffaele Chiulli.
“I will always have fond memories of the first edition of this innovative multi-sport event, but I am eager to build on this success and to help urban sports reach new heights and audiences in future editions.”
As a progressive multi-sport event, the World Urban Games was also proud to promote gender equality. There was an equal number of athletes from each gender, along with equal prize money across all sports.
While urban sport thrilled spectators, the festivities encouraged creativity and imagination in music, art and culture. For example, crowds were able to enjoy live performances from well-known artists such as Chase & Status and American rapper Talib Kweli, along with street art murals from talented street artists.