Farmington, NM – The Farmington Police Department would like to invite the community to attend the 2018 Four Corners Invitational State Competition for Special Olympics taking place on August 24 and 25. Athletes from around the state will compete in various sports to include golf, softball and aquatics. The Farmington Police Department has been a long-time supporter of Special Olympics, heading up local Law Enforcement Torch Run fundraising activities and serving as ambassadors for the organization. First Responders throughout San Juan County will be assisting with this weekend’s games.

This year’s invitational will kick off on Friday at 8:00 a.m. with the state golf tournament. Athletes will play on one of three courses: Pinon Hills in Farmington, Aztec Municipal Golf Course or Riverview in Kirtland. Opening ceremonies will begin that evening at 6:00 at McGee Park. Law enforcement officers will lead the torch relay for the traditional lighting of the Special Olympics flame ceremony.

The state softball tournament will begin directly after opening ceremonies and will continue through Saturday. Teams will be playing at the Fairground Softball Complex in Farmington. Also on Saturday are the aquatic events beginning at 8:00 a.m. at the Farmington Aquatic Center. The Olympic Village will be open on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. for athlete check-in and t-shirt sales benefitting Special Olympics.

Farmington Police Chief Steve Hebbe is encouraging the community to come out and show their support for the athletes. “Special Olympics provides children and adults with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to participate in a variety of Olympic-type sports,” he explained. “Our community has been given the honor of hosting this event year after year. We are asking you to come out and make this event a memorable and exciting experience for these dedicated athletes.”

There is not entry fee for the public to attend any of the events.