The Third Edition of the National University Sports Games began on Tuesday at the Águilas Rojas coliseum of the Universidad Católica de Cuenca. The event brings together more than 1,700 students from 18 universities and polytechnic schools across Ecuador. The competition will run until November 29 and aims to foster integration among students.
The government has allocated $300,000 for this multi-sport event, marking its return after a nine-year hiatus. This funding was provided through the Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture.
“The National Government, through the Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture, reaffirms its commitment to formative sports by allocating USD 300,000 for this multi-sport event, which returns after nine years of recess,” stated officials.
The opening ceremony included remarks from Enrique Pozo, Rector of Universidad Católica de Cuenca; Alejandro Larriva, Interventor of Federación Deportiva de Azuay; and other local authorities. Local athlete Nereida Santacruz led the sports oath.
Competitions will take place in Cuenca, Paute and Gualaceo. Fourteen disciplines are featured in these games: chess, athletics, basketball (3×3 and 5×5), soccer, futsal, judo, karate, swimming, taekwondo, tennis (field and table), as well as volleyball (beach and indoor).
