Community Corner

Ronkonkoma Company To Sponsor Nassau Empire State Games

NBTY invests $50,000 for 29th Annual athletic competition for the physically challenged.

Ronkonkoma-based dietary supplement corporation NYBT has announced its plans to sponsor the 29 Annual Nassau County Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged.

Through the company's nonprofit arm "Helping Hands," NBTY will donate $50,000 in its sponsorship of the event, which will be held from May 30 to June 1. The Nassau County Empire State Games is a weekend-long sporting event that features physically challenged athletes competing in track and field, slalom, archery, swimming, wheelchair basketball and table tennis.

“As an organization that promotes health and wellness, these games are a perfect vehicle for NBTY to give back to our community and recognize these inspirational and determined athletes for their achievements," Mike Oliveri, chairman of NBTY Helping Hands stated in a release. “It is so refreshing to have the opportunity to witness the love, cooperation and good sportsmanship that these games cultivate each year.”

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According to the release the events are offered to children between the ages of five and 21 years old who compete in games that are tailored to their specific abilities. Some of the athletes have disabilities such as visual impairment, hearing impairment, those with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries or Les Autres, which include arthritis and muscular dystrophy.

Early projections state that more than 1100 athletes are expected to compete at this year’s games. The games take will take place at the Mitchel Athletic Complex and Nassau Community College. Opening ceremonies will take place May 30th at 6:30 p.m., according to the statement from NBTY.

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