The 1924 Summer Olympics End

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3)

JULY 27, 1924

The Games of the VIII Olympiad also known as Paris 1924 or the 1924 Summer Olympics ended. 

The games officially began with an opening ceremony on July 5 at the Olympic Stadium of Colombes in Paris, France, although some games started on May 4, 1924. 

There were 44 countries that competed in the games including the Philippines. For the first time as a nation, the Philippines sent runner David Nepomuceno (May 9, 1900 – September 27, 1939) as its lone athlete. 

Although he failed to advance in the 100 meter and 200 meter dashes, he holds the distinction as the First Olympian of the Philippines. 

Nepomuceno who hails from Albay, was with the Philippine Scouts and a sailor in the United States Navy. He died on duty in 1939. 

When the Philippines joined the International Olympic Committee in 1918, it was a requisite for the country's acceptance to send an athlete at the 1924 Olympic Games.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia org and International Olympic Committee