The university jousts: The largest youth celebration in Puerto Rico.
The Puerto Rico University Jousts are an annual sporting event organized by the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (UPRM), also known as "Las Justas". They are the largest and most prestigious sporting event in the Puerto Rico public university system, and one of the most important sporting events on the island in general. Will be held from April 19 to April 29.
Photo:Eliott Reyna
Las Justas are held for a week in April and bring together thousands of athletes from various sports disciplines, as well as thousands of spectators from all the universities of the University of Puerto Rico system. The event takes place at the UPRM Isidoro García Stadium, a modern sports complex with first-class facilities.
Competing disciplines
Photo: Sandro Schuh
The sports disciplines that are competed in Las Justas include athletics, swimming, diving, weightlifting, basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball and many other sports. Teams represent their respective universities in intense competition to win medals and points for their alma mater. Las Justas athletes are renowned for their skill, dedication and sportsmanship, and competition is fierce in every discipline. According to the Organizing Committee of the Puerto Rico Mayagüez University Fairs (2022), "the event has a long tradition of promoting university sports in the region." In addition to sports competitions, Las Justas also includes a variety of cultural, social and recreational activities, such as concerts, fairs, exhibitions and meetings between students from different universities.
The Jousts are an opportunity for student-athletes to show off their sporting talent, establish friendships, and strengthen ties between the universities of the University of Puerto Rico system. According to the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (2022), "The University Jousts are an opportunity for student-athletes to demonstrate their talent and represent their alma mater." The Puerto Rico Mayagüez University Fairs have a long tradition of more than 100 years and are considered one of the most outstanding sporting events in the history of Puerto Rico. They are a true source of pride for the university community and for the island in general, and they promote the values of sports, friendship, and healthy competition among young Puerto Ricans. According to an article published in the local newspaper El Nuevo Día (2022), "the Puerto Rico Mayagüez University Fairs are one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year in the region"
Curiosities of the University Fairs of Puerto Rico Mayagüez.
The University Fairs of Puerto Rico Mayagüez have many interesting curiosities. Here I present some:
- Historical origin: Las Justas originated in 1913, when they were held for the first time in the city of Ponce, Puerto Rico. However, in 1929 they moved to Mayagüez, where they have been held uninterruptedly ever since.
- Massive participation: Las Justas is one of the largest university sporting events in Puerto Rico. Every year, thousands of athletes from all the universities of the University of Puerto Rico system participate in the competitions, making it a major event.
- Athletics competitions: Athletics is one of the most outstanding disciplines of Las Justas. Compete in a wide variety of events, including sprints, jumps, throws, and relays. Some of Puerto Rico's most outstanding athletes have emerged from Las Justas. For example, Iván Rodríguez, renowned and famous baseball catcher on the island, who represented the uniform on multiple occasions; also Edwin De La Cruz in softball, Víctor García and Jorge Herrera in swimming, in the 90's. Among the women, Amarilis Alméstica, hammer throwing champion in 2002 and 2003; and 22. Mary Mercedes, Bullet Drive Champion four years in a row; 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002.
- Excitement and passion: Las Justas are known for their exciting and passionate atmosphere. The students and supporters of the different universities dress in the colors and emblems of their alma mater, cheering and supporting their teams with fervor.
- Opening ceremony: Las Justas begins with a spectacular opening ceremony, in which representatives of all the participating universities participate. It takes place at the Isidoro García Stadium of the UPRM and it is an exciting moment that marks the official beginning of the competitions.
- Records and brands: Las Justas have been the scene of numerous sports records and brands over the years. Athletes compete to set new records in their respective disciplines, adding excitement and competitiveness to the event.
- Cultural and social activities: In addition to sports competitions, Las Justas also includes a variety of cultural and social activities, such as concerts, fairs and meetings between students from different universities. These activities foster camaraderie and integration among the participants.
- Economic impact: Las Justas have a significant economic impact on the city of Mayagüez and the surrounding region, as they attract thousands of visitors, including athletes, coaches, family members, and supporters. This generates an economic boost in the area in terms of accommodation, food, transportation and local commerce.
How to celebrate the University Jousts?
- The University Fairs of Puerto Rico Mayagüez are a sports and university celebration highly anticipated by the student community and the followers of the participating universities. Here are some popular ways to celebrate this event:
- Support your alma mater: Students and supporters of each participating university usually dress in the colors and emblems of their alma mater during the Justas. Cheering on and supporting your college's athletes is an exciting way to celebrate the event. Chants, shouts and banners are common in the stadium stands, creating a lively and passionate atmosphere.
- Participate in cultural activities: Las Justas also includes a variety of cultural activities, such as concerts, fairs and meetings between students from different universities. Participating in these activities is a way to celebrate the cultural and social diversity of Puerto Rico, and to enjoy moments of conviviality and camaraderie with other students.
- Compete in sporting events: If you are an athlete, participating in sports competitions is an exciting way to celebrate the Jousting. Representing your university in athletic events, doing your best, and seeking to set new records or personal bests is one way to contribute to the sportsmanship and competitiveness of the event.
- Enjoy the opening ceremony: The opening ceremony of the Jousting is a special moment in which the competitions are officially started. Attending this ceremony, witnessing the parades of the participating universities, enjoying the performances and shows that are presented, and being part of the excitement of the start of the Jousting is an exciting way to celebrate the event.
- Share on social networks: Social networks are a popular tool to celebrate the Jousts. Sharing photos, videos, messages of support, and special moments from the event on social media like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook is a way to connect with others students and supporters, and to show college spirit online.
- Participate in university traditions: Each university participating in the Jousts has its own traditions and rituals. Participating in these traditions, such as singing college songs, holding ceremonies, or holding special activities that are part of your college's culture, is a way to celebrate the event and strengthen a sense of community and belonging.
- Contribute to the festive atmosphere: During the Justas, the city of Mayagüez is filled with a festive atmosphere with activities in the streets, music and a lively atmosphere
In a few words, the Puerto Rico Mayagüez University Jousts are an emblematic sporting event on the island, combining athletic competition with camaraderie and the celebration of university culture. It is an event full of tradition, emotion and passion, which highlights sports talent and promotes the values of sports among the student community of Puerto Rico.
Reference sources:
Organizing Committee of the University Fairs of Puerto Rico Mayagüez. (2022).
University of Puerto Rico in Mayaguez. (2022) The University Jousts.
The New Day (2022). The University Jousts of Puerto Rico Mayagüez.