1938 British Empire Games

The 1938 British Empire Games were the third British Empire Games, the event that evolved to become the Commonwealth Games. Held in Sydney, Australia from 5–12 February 1938, they were timed to coincide with Sydney's sesqui-centenary (150 years since the foundation of British settlement in Australia). Venues included the Sydney Cricket Ground (the main stadium), the Sydney Sports Ground, North Sydney Olympic Pool and Henson Park. An estimated 40,000 people attended the opening ceremony. A competitors' residential village was established within the grounds of the Sydney Showground.^[1][2]

Quick Facts Host city, Nations ...

III British Empire Games

Host city	Sydney, Australia
Nations	15
Athletes	464
Events	71
Opening	5 February 1938
Closing	12 February 1938
Opened by	John Loder, 2nd Baron Wakehurst
Main venue	Sydney Cricket Ground
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The star of the games was the Australian athlete Decima Norman, who won five gold medals in track and field. Margaret Dovey, later married to Australian prime minister Gough Whitlam, finished sixth in the 220 yards breaststroke.

Due to the onset of World War II, the games were not held again until 1950.