After months of doubt over whether the Telmex Athletics Stadium in Guadalajara, Mexico would be ready for track and field at the 16th edition of the Pan-American Games, the 15,000-capacity facility was officially opened Friday, October 20, just three days ahead of the seven-day athletics program of the Games, which begins tomorrow.
The athletics track was approved by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) week. However, swimming, cycling, basketball and other events have been underway since Friday, the 14th.
Heavy rain storms have been blamed as one of the main reasons for delays to the project which, after a frantic race against time, has been completed as an impressive stadium, opening just in the nick of time.
Held once every four years prior to the Olympics, Pan-Am features nations from across the Americas. This year, 41 countries are competing in the Games, Among the main contenders are the USA, Cuba, Jamaica, Trinidad and the Bahamas.
After the Games which end next Sunday, October 30, the stadium will become a multipurpose venue, hosting sports such as athletics and baseball, as well as music concerts.