The Special Olympics Fall Games in New York State opened on Friday night in Glens Falls.

Up to 1,000 athletes will be competing over the weekend and going for gold in seven different sports.

Athletes from all around the state participate. Many were marching in a parade on Friday evening at Glens Falls City Park.

“Special Olympics is always very special for me,” one athlete said.

Jude Killar an awareness coordinator for Special Olympics for New York said this year athletes are coming from all over.

“Their coming from New York City, from Long Island, the western region, the Hudson Valley. We have nine regions in total. They get to come compete and have a great time and enjoy the competition as it goes and all weekend hoping to get gold medals,” Killar said.

The New York State Police presented the night’s colors and Glens Falls Mayor Bill Collins spoke.

“The power of competitive sports is something else. And the witness, you guys. So, so lucky. So many of you change your lives through sports. I owe you so very much,” Collins said.