By: Dr. Mario Melgar-Adalid

The Panamerican Games (the "Games") amount to a preview of the Olympic Games for the participating countries. The Games take place every four years on the year prior to the Olympic Games and encompass competitions in almost all team and individual sports. In addition to a large financial investment in infrastructure, the Games require a significant level of logistical and technical organization. The city of Guadalajara has been hosting the 2011 Panamerican Games, which had been held in Mexico on two prior occasions, with the participation of 42 countries from the Americas. The Games provide an opportunity to show the rest of the world a different image of Mexico, one unrelated to the ongoing war against organized crime, violence or drug trafficking. The Games are joyful, successful and full of splendor, just as its venue, the beautiful City of Guadalajara. Safety during the competitions was a key concern of the international sport authorities prior to the Games. The Federal government, and the governments of the State of Jalisco and municipalities that comprise the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, have guaranteed the safety of the spectators and athletes with an intelligent action plan. The citizens of Guadalajara have cooperated with enthusiasm and supported the authorities in charge of maintaining order and proudly showcased the beauty of their city in a joyful and congenial manner. The Games represent an opportunity for the City of Guadalajara to reinforce its social fabric and economy, which is the origin of Mexican symbols such as the "mariachi" (traditional music and musicians), "charreria" (traditional rodeo events), country folklore and music, regional cuisine and Tequila. The image of Mexico has improved thanks to the enthusiastic effort of the City of Guadalajara, which deserves to be congratulated.