While the IAC was officially started, the games didn't immediately start at the same time. It was well known that if athletes didn't stretch before their games, they would suffer moderate to severe injuries. Because of this there was an official warm-up/practice session, both to get ready for their events and familiarize themselves with Animalian equipment.
---
It was also during this time that there were a few reunions of note, particularly of Elly and her parents. Animalia Ambassadoria was also happy to meet Elly's parents, for polite interaction if nothing else.
---
While many of the things made especially for the Animalian Athletes were somewhat appreciated (such as reinforced/heavier equipment), there was some that made those taking part shake their heads in confusion.
"Why anyone would want the 'bodybuilder village' being composed of mainly one-room yurts I don't know." said Starla, on seeing their quarters since they were taking part in both the swimming events, the URP showcase, and the IAC Couples bodybuilding competition.
"I heard that it was a suggestion on the internet." said Jason, "But the only thing that they're not doing of that suggestion is having us running around nearly naked, with only our posing equipment to provide modesty,"
"I don't mind the outdoor kitchen and workout area," said Herman, "But I'm glad that part was a no-go."
---
While most Project Dinotopian members were moving to Dinosaur City, Heather, Reggie and Jeremy weren't moving there straight away. mainly because of the Indominus VS. Spinosaurus that was considered the Inaugural Match of the Mesozoic Fight Club, but Jeremy was also staying because he wanted to watch Polly at the IAC's URP.
---
Because WSA didn't really get out until after Memorial day, Animalia Ambassadoria's Junior members would have to wait until exams were over at least. But that didn't mean that they weren't just studying or taking their exams, they were also getting their passes signed and passports stamped so they could travel to the colonies and do coverage there, both of the colony proper and the special events there.
One that was considered a priority for the "founders" was the Australian colony, mainly because they had also received an invitation to Ben and Tyree's wedding at the famous Uluru Rock. This was considered important because these two were the founding members of Project Thylacine.
---
Part of what made the 2019 the most interesting was the showcase of Project Hermaphroditus. True hermaphroditism was considered rare among vertebrate animals, but since Iphis and Ianthe was one of the rare "true" herms, Horizon was able to isolate the elusive "herm" gene. After that, it was only a matter of choosing those who were "better" (a vastly oversimplified term) to become herms than others. While most of them were those who suffered from black market gender reassignment surgery, there were also those whom the scientists were more interested in other aspects of nature and the herm gene, hence the wolves that were rescued.
---
Above all, the 2019 IAC was shaping to be even bigger than the last one, and was already generating millions in ticket sales alone, not counting souvenir sales.