Empire State Games kick off Thursday

This summer’s Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged, which have taken place in Nassau County for 26 years, will be held in the county once again, beginning Thursday, despite the state’s withdrawal of funding this year.

“The Committee to Save the Games successfully reached its fundraising goal [of $150,000] due to the generosity of local businesses, schools and citizens in the community,” said County Executive Edward Mangano, a leader of the committee.

Opening ceremonies will begin 6:30 p.m. at the Mitchel Athletic Complex. Competitions and demonstrations will be held Friday and Saturday at the complex and at Nassau Community College.

Athletes ages 5 to 21, all of whom have a disability, will compete in track, slalom, swimming, wheelchair basketball and table tennis.

Closing ceremonies will be at the college starting at 6:30 p.m. Saturday.

More information is available at The Disability Opportunity Fund's website.