2004 South Asian Games


The 2004 South Asian Games, officially known as the IX South Asian Federation Games, were held in Islamabad, Pakistan in 2004. Originally scheduled for 2001, the games were postponed in the wake of the 9/11 attacks on the United States in which the US later declared Pakistan a Major non-NATO ally. The slogan for the Games was Rising Above. For the first time, Afghanistan was included at the games.

Delay

The games in Islamabad were originally to be held in 2001, but they were inevitably rescheduled for March 29 through April 6, 2003, due to the invasion of Afghanistan. Afghanistan was invited for the games, however Bhutan and India withdrew.
The entire event was postponed once again due to the war against Iraq. Pakistan retained the organisational authority, despite Sri Lanka being offered to host the games for 2004. Nevertheless, the honour was returned to Sri Lanka as they were given the 10th edition for 2006 instead. The 9th edition was then rescheduled in Pakistan, for 29 March through 7 April 2004. Despite not entering in the previous schedule, Bhutan and India now entered, though the Maldives withdrew from the football tournament.

The Games

Participating nations

Eight countries competed.

Sports