Simplot Games provides opportunities for athletes to shine - East Idaho News
Pocatello

Simplot Games provides opportunities for athletes to shine

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POCATELLO — Athletes from all over the globe will compete at the 41st annual Simplot Games in February.

The annual Simplot Games, an event sponsored by the J.R. Simplot Company and hosted by Idaho State University Athletics, is a three-day open track and field meet showcasing athletes throughout the world. This year, the event will take place from Feb. 14 to 16.

Participants will compete in an Olympic-style meet designed to test their skills and possibly even earn themselves a college scholarship or spot on an Olympic team. Event organizers say this is the nation’s premier high school indoor track and field event.

The meet will take place at Idaho State’s Holt Arena. Athletes will interact with other competitors from the U.S, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

“This gives them an opportunity to compete with people around the world and really step up their performance,” said Lisa Woodland, the executive director of the games. “The games mean so much to so many people.”

The games give smaller high schools and programs around the world in smaller communities and remote areas the opportunity to shine and show what they’ve got in front of collegiate and Olympic scouts.

According to the Simplot Games’ website, the event is an “open meet,” which means athletes do not need a certain qualifying time or distance to be able to compete.”

Athletes will also meet, talk and eat with several Olympic medalists including Dick Fosbury, Andre Phillips, Stacy Dragila and Dan O’Brien.

Admission is free.

For more information, visit the Simplot Games’ website or Simplot Games Facebook or Instagram page.

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