About 1,000 athletes will compete in this year’s Special Olympics Alabama State Games at Troy University.

This will be the seventh year the games have been held in Troy.

“The athletes are very excited to be returning to Troy,” said Dean of Student Services Herb Reeves. “We invite you to visit, cheer or volunteer to assist the athletes in having the best time ever.”

Events get started today with the Special Olympics Torch Run made by law enforcement officers.

“The first time we ran it was in 2007,” said Lt. Bryan Weed with the Troy Police Department. “I didn’t know a whole lot about it then. But now, I wouldn’t miss it. You get to see those kids and the excitement in their faces when you go by them. They have so much passion for the games and life.”

The run is statewide and Troy officers will pick up the torch in Montgomery, but the portion in Troy begins at 2 p.m. at the Troy Police Department. The run will move along South Brundidge Street and turn onto University Avenue, ending at Sartain Hall.

“It’s a special time for us. There are no real words,” Weed said. “People talk about heroes, but I couldn’t imagine any more of a true here than those kids are, to overcome whatever special need they have and to come and perform and compete.”

At 7 p.m., opening ceremonies begin at the Trojan Arena and will include entertainment and a parade of athletes.

Competitions begin at 9 a.m. Saturday morning and include swimming, gymnastics, equestrian, bowling, track and field, softball, bocce, power lifting, cycling, flag football and golf.

On Saturday night, there will be a victory dance for all the athletes.

Closing ceremonies will be held on Sunday at 9 a.m. and will include a memorial service for athletes who died during the last year.