1979 Pan American Games

On May 31, 1973, San Juan was the only candidate city to be a finalist to host the games and thus, San Juan was then selected to host the VIII Pan American Games by PASO at its general assembly in Santiago, Chile.^[3][4][5]

The use of the Puerto Rican flag and anthem over those of the United States became a point of contention between the COPUR and the administration.^[6] As mayor of San Juan, then-Governor Carlos Romero Barceló had been involved in the organization process, but as soon as he took office demanded that the flag of Puerto Rico could only be used if accompanied by that of the United States and that both anthems were to be played.^[6] Pushback came from sports leaders led by Germán Rieckehoff, who noted that it was against IOC rules, while civilian groups backed their stance.^[6] The Asociación de Atletas y Deportistas de Puerto Rico emerged as an educational tool against the administration.^[6] Romero hosted the opening ceremony and coordinated for both anthems to be played, being jeered himself and witnessing the booing of the American anthem in what became known as "La Pitada Olímpica".^[7] In 1980 a documentary titled A Step Away covered the organization of the event.^[8]