We are always on the lookout for great summertime events in the Southern Tier of New York State and Northeast Pennsylvania. We found one that is an event not to be missed.

The Special Olympics New York State Summer Games are about to begin. This year, the three day event begins on Thursday June 8th through Saturday June 10th with over 800 athletes and coaches from across the state, being held in Ithaca and Vestal.

According to Special Olympics New York, competition will be in the form of seven different sporting events including basketball, bowling, gymnastics, powerlifting, swimming, plus tennis and track & field.

The event will kick off Thursday featuring 'A Night of Champions'  to honor local game changers and raise funds to support the games from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, in the large pavilion of Stewart Park located at 1 James L Gibbs Drive in Ithaca.

Friday will feature the opening ceremonies  from 7 to 8:15 pm at the Quad Field of Ithaca College, 953 Danby Road in Ithaca (opening ceremonies.)

Saturday is the main event day featuring the seven sport competitions. The Special Olympics New York schedule for the day is listed below:

9 am to 2 pm – Track & Field at Ithaca High School, 1401 North Cayuga Street in Ithaca (may be moved indoors)

9 am to 4 pm - Basketball & Swimming at the Ithaca College A&E Center, 953 Danby Road in Ithaca

2 to 4 pm – Gymnastics at the Hill Center, Ithaca College, 953 Danby Road in Ithaca

9:00 am to 4 pm - Powerlifting at the Ithaca College Fitness Center, 953 Danby Road in Ithaca

9:45 am to 3 pm - Tennis at the Ithaca College Tennis Courts, 953 Danby Road in Ithaca (moved indoors)

10 am to 3 pm - Bowling at Midway Lanes, 213 North Jensen Road in Vestal

5:30 to 8:30 pm - Athlete Health Screenings at the Campus Center of Ithaca College, 953 Danby Road in Ithaca

7 to 8:30 pm - Closing Ceremonies and Dance Party at the Campus Center of Ithaca College, 953 Danby Road in Ithaca

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