State Games of the West - Opening Ceremony

The State Games of the West Opening Ceremony is set for Thursday, July 24, at 7:00 p.m. at the Colorado Springs World Arena. 2002 Olympic Speedskating gold medalist Derek Parra will be on hand to light the Games? flame to conclude the evening and officially open the Games. Parra became the first Mexican-American to win a medal at the Olympic Winter Games when he won the 1500 meters in a world and Olympic record time of 1:43.95 in Salt Lake City. He added a silver medal in the 500 meters to cap his historic moment. The evening, sponsored by AT&T, will also include the appearance of The Light the World Parade, a world famous cultural arts parade which made its first international appearance at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. This spectacular team of performers will lead the crowd in dance, music and wear colorful costumes in a special salute to the athletes from Colorado and a dozen other Western states that will compete in the Games, July 24-27, at 25 venues across the city. Also on the menu will be music by ?Martini Shot,? high-energy acrobatic trampoline performances by the Skyriders!, a special salute to the city's military personnel and families, and the Olympic-style Parade of the Athletes. Athletes will receive free admission to the Opening Ceremony. Spectators can purchase Opening Ceremony tickets at the following prices: $10 for adults, $5 for youth (18 & under) & seniors (55 ).