Empire State Winter Games adds triathlon
LAKE PLACID — The 44th Empire State Winter Games (ESWG) is set to bring in more than 2,500 winter sports athletes to Lake Placid, N.Y., and the surrounding Adirondack Region, February 1-4, 2024. Athletes of all ages and abilities from across New York State and beyond will compete in 21 different sports.
New this year is the sprint winter triathlon. The first of its kind in upstate New York, the ESWG’s sprint winter triathlon will feature a five-kilometer (5k) run, followed by a 10k winter bike and a 10k cross country ski, all on the scenic trails of the Tupper Lake Golf Course.
“In the spirit of the Empire State Winter Games, we aim to inspire athletes of all ages and abilities to strive for their personal best, create lasting memories and embrace the camaraderie of the Games,” said Tracy Smith, executive director of the Adirondack Sports Council, the ESWG’s organizing committee. “We are delighted to be part of their journey and look forward to a spectacular event.”
The ESWG kicks off on Thursday, February 1, 2024, with an Opening Ceremony, which returns to Lake Placid’s Olympic Center and the Herb Brooks Arena, at 6:30 p.m. For the past two winters, athletes, officials, volunteers, family, friends and spectators have gathered on the frozen ice of Mirror Lake to celebrate the Games’ opening event.
“While there have been so many great memories created on Mirror Lake, we’re thrilled to be working with the New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority to bring Opening Ceremony back to the famed Herb Brooks Arena. This year’s theme is ‘then and now’, which will showcase the yearly dedication and commitment these athletes show in their sports,” added Smith.
In addition to Lake Placid and Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, Paul Smiths, Wilmington and North Creek will host events during the 44th annual Empire State Winter Games.
Muggsy’s Tip Off Classic
SARANAC — Thursday saw the beginning of Muggsy’s Tip Off Classic at Saranac Middle/High School.
Boys teams NCCS, Saranac Lake, Massena and Saranac are competing over the course of the three day tournament.
NCCS, Heuvelton, Beekmantown and Saranac will begin competing today starting at 5 p.m.
Tomorrow will mark the conclusion of the tournament with games beginning noon and lasting until 4:30 p.m. with consolation and championship games alternating between boys and girls.
Admission to the games is by donation only.