Three current and one former Husker athlete will take part in the torch lighting ceremony to kick off the Cornhusker State Games Thursday night outside the Pinnacle Bank Arena.
“Around 8:00 the torch will make it’s way across the pedestrian bridge to the front and the caldron is lit,” says Dave Mlnarik, executive director of the Nebraska Sports Council.
He says former volleyball standout Nicklin Hames will be joined by current athletes Jaz Shelley, Jordy Bahl and Jess Gardner in the torch lighting ceremony. The relay will begin in a relay with Bahl inside Bowlin Stadium. The torch bearers will be escorted by soldiers from the Nebraska Air National Guard.
After crossing the bridge, Hames will complete the relay and light the caldron. All four will sign autographs after the program until 9:00 and the public is welcome to attend for free. Free ice cream treats will also be available.
Competition in more than 70 games will begin Friday in and around Lincoln and several other communities. Mlnarik says they are expecting around 10,000 athletes of all ages and athletic abilities to take part.