State Games of America torch bearing
On July 31st I was lucky enough to be asked to bear the torch at the opening ceremony of The State Games of America, alongside my former coach, Jamie Bestwick. As State College has produced so many successful athletes associated with the town, as well as me having only lived here not even two years, I was extremely honoured and excited at the opportunity.
The State Games is like americas own Olympics, it happens every two years and is hosted by a different state each year, and athletes of various sports and age categories qualify for the games by winning their state championship. This year in 2026 the games is located in State College, Happy Valley Pennsylvania, and it makes sense since between The Penn State University and the local area, it can provide all the sport facilities you could need. Plus, visitors get to experience all the lovely restaurants, Penn State history & the great outdoors this town has to offer, bringing in thousands of visitors.
The opening ceremony was located at the Bryce Jordan Centre, home of Penn State basketball and hosts various performing bands & artists. My guests and I were invited to the VIP reception with food and beverage before the event, which was great to meet and hear from so many people involved in the organisation of the games; including representatives from the event sponsors such as Visit PA, USA 250 & Kish Bank, and those behind the scenes at Happy Valley Events that brought it all together. Once in the stadium, the show began with the represented state teams walking out with their flags, until finally the host state PA had the biggest hype walk out. There was various speeches of thanks and welcoming to enjoy Happy Valley, athletes stories and even performances. Finally, I walked the torch down the venue and up on stage where I met Jamie, and we both lit the cauldron to declare the State Games of America officially open!
Thank you to Happy Valley Events and those behind the scenes for giving me this opportunity, this small town has been so welcoming and good to us, I only want to repay the favour. Thank you, State College!
Check out my event walk through by clicking here, for some highlights of the evening.
