Though Colorado may not be on the IOC’s list of host sites anytime soon, it is serving as host to an event of Olympic proportion, the 2005 State Games of America. Forty-six states are represented and 9,049 athletes are scheduled to compete in 24 sports.
The four-day event began with preliminary competition Thursday and continues through Sunday. Most events are being held in Colorado Springs, but there are competitions throughout the state, including Denver, Monument and Pueblo.
“It’s going to be incredible because we’re expecting national-type competitors in our own backyard,” said Doug Martin, director of the Games.
With the merging of the State Games and Colorado’s Rocky Mountain State Games, the turnout dwarfs the previous high of 6,193 entrants, set during the inaugural year of 1999 in St. Louis.More than half of this year’s participants will be Coloradans.
Entrants include medal winners from each state’s Games, Colorado residents, students attending Colorado colleges and U.S. military personnel and their families stationed in Colorado. Ages of competitors vary from the youngest, 3-year-old figure skater Emma Kate Bonner, to the oldest, bowler Loretta Ramus, 87. Among the more popular events are basketball, soccer and track and field. New to this year’s State Games are diving, gymnastics and wrestling.
Each sport will be divided into recreational and elite categories, with each event separated by age or weight groups.
“It’s what makes the State Games so special because it’s open to all ages and skill levels,” Martin said. “It’s an inspiration for athletes and spectators to have a 3-year-old doing twirls and an 87-year-old competing in bowling and training for a gold medal.”
For first-time participants such as golfer Robert Sims, 59, of Castle Rock, this weekend’s event will be about camaraderie.
“I’m really looking forward to being there and meeting with different athletes from around the country,” Sims said. “It’s going to be similar to playing in the World Games in St. George, Utah.”
Colorado will again host the State Games of America in 2007.
State Games of America
Where: 27 venues throughout Colorado, including Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Denver, Fort Carson and Monument
When: Through Sunday
For more information: www.stategames.org
Phone: 888-252-6443
Admission: Individual day pass $5; car/family day pass $10
