La Guaira, Venezuela – The XXXVII Inter-Academy Military Games officially commenced this past Friday with a symbolic torch-lighting ceremony held at the historic Meseta de Mamo in La Guaira, Venezuela. The event marks the beginning of a multi-city torch relay and the lead-up to thirteen days of intense competition among military academies from across the nation.
The ceremony, presided over by the Minister of Popular Power for Sport, Franklin Cardillo, alongside senior officials from the National Bolivarian Armed Forces and cadets representing the Naval Military Academy (Amarb), ignited a spirit of competition that will carry through the games. The torch was initially carried through the Amarb grounds before being transferred to the Bolivarian Military University, where a cadet from the Naval Technical Academy received the flame.
This year’s torch relay isn’t confined to a single location. According to reports, the flame will travel through Caracas, Charallave, and the state of Aragua, visiting various academies before returning to Caracas on February 24th to officially kick off the competitive events. The relay is designed to build anticipation and showcase the spirit of the games throughout the country.
More than 4,000 cadets from twelve military training institutions – representing the Army, Navy, Aviation, National Guard, and Military Medicine, among others – will participate in the games. These athletes will test their physical and tactical skills across a diverse range of disciplines, aiming to defend the honor of their respective academies. The competition will run from February 24th to March 7th.
The Inter-Academy Military Games aren’t just about national pride. they also serve as a crucial scouting ground for potential national team athletes. General of Division Yván José Bello Rojas, president of the Sports Federation of the National Bolivarian Armed Forces (Fedefanb), noted that the games will help identify cadets who could potentially represent Venezuela at the 2028 World Games. “These competitions will allow us to identify cadets who can form our national selections in the different disciplines that will represent us in the 2028 World Games,” he said.
The sporting program is extensive, encompassing athletics, swimming, military pentathlon, shooting, the Revolutionary Tactical Resistance Method (MTRR), basketball, baseball, soccer (field and indoor), kikimbol, softball, volleyball, fencing, badminton, karate do, and chess. This broad spectrum of events ensures a comprehensive test of the cadets’ all-around abilities.
Beyond the competitive aspect, organizers emphasize the importance of the games in fostering camaraderie and reinforcing the core values of the Venezuelan armed forces. The event is seen as a way to strengthen the strategic unity of the National Bolivarian Armed Forces (FANB) and build a lasting sporting legacy. The focus, officials say, extends beyond medals to the development of teamwork and mutual respect.
The torch-lighting ceremony at Meseta de Mamo, a location steeped in military history, set the stage for what promises to be a compelling display of athleticism, discipline, and national spirit. With the flame now lit and the relay underway, the academies are preparing to showcase the dedication and cohesion that define the future officer corps of Venezuela.
The XXXVII Inter-Academy Military Games will be held in Caracas and Aragua. The next key date is February 24th, when the competitive events officially begin. Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates and coverage of the games.
