Ky. Special Olympics kicks off Winter Games | News

LAWRENCEBURG, IN (FOX19) -

The Special Olympics Kentucky State Winter Games kicked off on Sunday.

Nearly 100 athletes will compete in the games through Tuesday at Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceburg, Ind.

Athletes will compete in alpine skiing and snowshoeing events at several different skill levels throughout the week.

More than 100 volunteers will be on hand to support the athletes. Members of the Cincinnati Ski Club will serve as one-on-one instructors for the first two days before turning the athletes loose to race on Tuesday.  The volunteers will work with the athletes to help improve their skills and improve higher competition levels.

Sunday will feature the event's opening ceremonies. The day features a parade of the athletes and the lighting of the Special Olympics cauldron.

Time trials will take place Monday afternoon to determine which division the athletes will compete in for Tuesday's competition.

Each athlete will compete in two events on Tuesday starting at 10:30 a.m. An award ceremony will be held following the events.

Sunday's opening ceremonies marks the Kentucky State Winter Game's 33rdanniversary. This year also marks the 16th year that the games have been held at Perfect North Slopes.    

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