1973 Bolivarian Games

Host cityPanama City

Country Panama

Nations5

Athletes1200

VII Bolivarian Games

Host city	Panama City
Country	Panama
Nations	5
Athletes	1200
Events	16 sports
Opening	February 17, 1973 (1973-02-17)
Closing	March 3, 1973 (1973-03-03)
Opened by	Demetrio Basilio Lakas
Athlete's Oath	Xenia Moreno
Torch lighter	Faustino López
Main venue	Estadio Revolución
← 1970 Maracaibo 1977 La Paz →

The VII Bolivarian Games (Spanish: Juegos Bolivarianos) were a multi-sport event held between February 17 - March 3, 1973, at the Estadio Revolución^[1] in Panama City, Panama. The Games were organized by the Bolivarian Sports Organization (ODEBO). Ecuador was the only eligible country not to send a delegation because of "internal problems".^[2][3]

The Games were officially opened by Panamanian president Demetrio Basilio Lakas. Torch lighter was long-distance runner Faustino López, who won the gold medal in the 5000 metres event at the 1951 Bolivarian Games. The athlete's oath was sworn by gymnast Xenia Moreno.^[4]

A detailed history of the early editions of the Bolivarian Games between 1938 and 1989 was published in a book written (in Spanish) by José Gamarra Zorrilla, former president of the Bolivian Olympic Committee, and first president (1976–1982) of ODESUR.^[4]