Athletes from around the state will be in Rochester to compete in six Olympic-style sports as part of the 2018 New York State Special Olympics. Opening ceremonies are Friday.

The competition gives people of all ages with intellectual disabilities a chance to participate and discover new strengths and abilities through sports.

Monroe County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo is the honorary chair of the State Winter Games this year.

Participants will take part in alpine skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, figure skating and floor hockey. The events will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday in multiple locations, including Swain Resort, Bristol Mountain, Genesee Valley Sports Complex and the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.

Volunteers play a huge role in the games and you can still sign up by visiting the 2018 State Winter Games Homepage.

The two-day competition ends Saturday night with a victory dance.

All of the events are free and open to the public.