TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Tonight marks the start of the 53rd annual summer games for Special Olympics Indiana.

This weekend brought in over 2,100 athletes from across the state to compete. Our very own Julie Henricks hosted tonight’s event.

The opening ceremony was held tonight at the Hulman Center on ISU’s campus. The ceremony started with a parade of athletes, followed by the lighting of the torch. This year’s game theme is “Everyday Champions” inspired by the film “The Best We’ve Got: The Carl Erskine Story.” The 2023 summer games will offer competition in these Olympic-type sports: bocce, bowling, cycling, powerlifting, swimming, track and field, and volleyball. President and Ceo of Special Olympics, Jeff Mohler shares how they keep the athletes healthy while competing all day.

“All day tomorrow, Saturday, will be competition. In addition, we will have Healthy Athletes which is free medical screenings for our athletes. These are put on by health professionals from across the state coming in to provide that free of charge for our athletes and their families.”

For more information on events and event times for this weekend’s events, check out their website here.