These symbols have been important public relations tools to gain public support for the Panamerican Games during a long period of construction and roadway upheavals.

Huichi is a deer who represents the southern region of the state and alludes to its Huichol traditions and the female identity.

Gavo is a blue agave plant who is representative of the region which is famous for its tequila production.

Leo is a lion, who represents the strength of the people of Guadalajara and is also part of the city’s coat of arms.

The winners’ medals are embroidered with symbols of Guadalajara and the state of Jalisco, such as the spiky agave plant from which tequila is made. The textured lower halves of the medals are based on the heart of the agave. These designs were influenced by the vivid artworks of the indigenous Huichol people from northern Jalisco.

Situated one kilometer past Guadalajara’s beltway (known as the Periferico), the custom-built Athletes’ Village (Villa Panamericana) will house all 6,000 participants of both the Pan American and Parapan Games.  A stone’s throw from the Omnilife Stadium – where the opening and closing ceremonies are taking place – the athletes’ living quarters have been carefully thought out and equipped with all kinds of amenities designed for comfort and fun.  Apart from the three-bedroom apartments, there’s a huge central plaza, a restaurant, gym, discotheque, chapel, swimming pool, a theater, a health clinic and lots of green space.

Lit August 26 at the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, the torch has been carried across Mexico in a 50-day relay. It has covered 15,000 kilometers in all 32 Mexican states, with the participation of 3,500 torch bearers. The torch resembles an agave plant, featuring the shape of the leaves in green, blue and metallic white colors.