In the summer of 1969, an event called the “Armenian Olympics” was held at Chabot College in Hayward, California. It was the fulfillment of a dream by Richard Demirjian, who combined his Armenian heritage and love of sports into a unique event that Armenians of all ages could participate in.
A long time track and field aficionado, Richard attended many events in Northern California, which included athletes from all around the world. It was at the 1969 Athens Track Meet at the Oakland Arena that Demirjian met the then world record holder long jumper Igor Ter Ovanessian of Russia. Ter Ovanessian was talking with Ben Morjig(ian)then the Vice-President of the Pacific Association of the AAU. From this encounter Richard began to develop his idea for an Armenian Track Meet.
With the help of Ben Morjig, who provided all of the officials, the first “Armenian Olympics” came to fruition. Mr. Demirjian serves as the first president of the Western Armenian Athletic Association, the host organization of the meet. Since it’s inception, the event has grown and various sports added. It has truly become the place where Armenians could gather socially to enjoy athletic competition and create new friendships.