Meijer partnered with the West Michigan Sports Commission to put on the seventh annual Meijer State Games of Michigan Summer Games. The Meijer State Games of Michigan gives Michiganders of all ages and abilities the opportunity to compete in a multi-sport, Olympic-style event. The 2016 Summer Games main weekend, held June 23-26, offered 37 sporting events at venues across West Michigan, as well as an Opening Ceremony event welcoming all of this year’s athletes.
The Opening Ceremony entertained more than 5,000 spectators June 24 at Fifth Third Ballpark, featuring all of the traditions we have come to expect of an Olympic-style event, from the parade of athletes to the lighting of the torch to a world-class performance by the Olate Dogs. Winner of the seventh season of “America’s Got Talent,” the canine theatrical act entertained the crowd with amazing dog tricks, human acrobatics and humor. In the spirit of the Olate Dogs, the Meijer State Games of Michigan invited local animal-welfare organizations to host pet adoptions at the ballpark.
This year’s Summer Games drew 8,000 athletes statewide to compete in 42 sports over the course of multiple weekends. Between the 2016 Winter and Summer Games, the Meijer State Games have allowed more than 10,000 Michiganders the opportunity to prove their athletic prowess. Participating athletes come from every ability level and age group, from ages 4 to 92.
“It is remarkable to see the wide range of athletes coming together to celebrate participation, sportsmanship and healthy living in the Meijer State Games of Michigan,” Executive Director of the Meijer State Games Eric Engelbarts said. “The Meijer State Games of Michigan has grown to be one of the most celebrated and anticipated events in Michigan for many youth, adults, seniors, coaches and parents.”
It is not too late to join in on the action. Events for tennis, beach wrestling, pinball, soccer and cycling will be held in the coming weekends. For more information on these upcoming events and the Meijer State Games of Michigan, click here.