The Virginia Commonwealth Games Continues Breaking Records
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n the world of sports, breaking a record is a phenomenal feat. Proudly, the Virginia Commonwealth Games not only showcases athletes breaking records, but also continues to break participation and economic impact records themselves since moving the Games to Liberty University and the Lynchburg area four years ago. Any age or skill level can participate in the Virginia Commonwealth Games and a number of well-known athletes, like baseball star Justin Verlander, with his MLB record of 200 career strikeouts, got an early start playing in the Virginia Commonwealth Games - High School All Star baseball showcase. Many other athletic hopefuls have been breaking their own records in the past few years during the Games, like Stafford High School indoor pole vaulter Gennifer Hirata (2018 Games) and 12-year-old long jumper Elizabeth Dean (2019 Games) with the state record of 17’7”. Dean also holds the 12-year-old world record in the long jump at 20’11”. Age records have additionally been set at the Games, with impressive performances by Lynchburg pickleball player Joe Lindsoe, who turned 90 on the first day of competition this past July and 92 year old figure skater Ray Carmines with the
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Family • May 2020
Hampton Roads Iceplex. Regardless of age or skill the Virginia Commonwealth Games, the largest multi-sport festival in the state, encourages everyone to “Get Out and Play!” Since 2016 Virginia Amateur Sports (VAS), organizers of the Virginia Commonwealth Games, have seen a record 46% increase in participation numbers and a 233% economic impact increase, including the 2019 State Games of America. “We have dedicated partners and volunteers that have provided our Olympic style festival with a formula for growth, as well as an opportunity to provide health and wellness benefits to thousands of families across Virginia. Our mission is strong, and our future is purposeful,” states Dan Foutz, Virginia Amateur Sports President. Organizers are optimistic the trend of record-breaking performances will continue for the Games this summer. Athletes and families from across Virginia will be uniting this summer to contend for gold, silver and bronze medals in nearly 50 sports, from pickleball, swimming, softball, and baseball to new sports like kickball. Another new sport to the Games this year will be a basketball skills challenge in partnership with the Twin Hoops Basketball Camps. “We are so
excited to partner Twin Hoops Sports with the Virginia Commonwealth Games - Going for the “Gold” Skills Challenge!” at our summer basketball camps. This will add another dimension to our championship day. VAS represents the best in all sports competitions not only in the state of Virginia but throughout the country,” states Directors of the organization Ramon and Damon Williams. Basketball has been the most participated sport in the Games since their inception 30 years ago, and planners are excited about offering another opportunity in the popular sport. Modeled after the Olympics, the Virginia Commonwealth Games at Liberty University main Games weekend is expected to be held July 24-26. As part of the weekend festivities at Liberty University, an athlete parade will kick off the celebration on July 24, followed by a free Tailgate Party and Opening Ceremonies. For up to date information and changes, or to volunteer, visit www.commonwealthgames.org.
