Games of Texas to attract thousands to BCS

Let the Games begin!

The TAAF Games of Texas, that is. The multi-sport festival starts July 31 and runs through Aug. 4 at venues across Bryan-College Station.

What are the Games of Texas? Imagine a state version of the Olympics.

The festival is managed by the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation, the governing body for athletics and sports in the state’s parks and recreation world. For the next two summers, Texas A&M, the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, and the cities of College Station and Bryan will host the event.

10,000 athletes in 14 sports

Hotel rooms are already fully booked, and local restaurants and stores can expect a virtual invasion of visitors for the four-day festival. We’re expecting close to 10,000 athletes to compete, cheered along by an entourage of up to 20,000 parents, relatives, friends, coaches, fans and volunteers.

Corpus Christi had the event in 2012-13 and reported an economic impact of more than $15 million.

With 14 different sports, activity will be spread across both cities and the A&M campus. Events include archery, baseball, bowling, boxing, disc golf, kickball, skateboarding, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, golf and lifeguarding.

If you’re interested in competing, you can still register online at TAAF.com. If you’d like to help out as a volunteer, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 979-764-3486 or parks@cstx.gov. As the title sponsor, the National Guard will have a significant presence with some 100 volunteers on hand.

Opening ceremonies will be Friday, Aug. 1 at Blue Bell Ballpark/Olsen Field. The parade of athletes begins at 7:30 p.m., and admission is free. We invite you to come out and welcome the thousands of visitors to Aggieland!