The 28th annual Michigan Victory Games begins Thursday at IM Sports-West.

More than 100 athletes with physical and visual impairments from Michigan and surrounding states will compete in events including table tennis, bocci ball, track and field, power lifting, cycling and cross country. The games are going to be held through Saturday in various sports facilities on campus.

J.J. Lewis, president of the Michigan Disabilities Sports Alliance, said the games are important because Michigan doesn't offer too many competitive opportunities for physically impaired athletes.

"This is something all athletes enjoy," he said. "It's a very friendly atmosphere for the athletes and their families."

Lewis said the events are a precursor for national and international competition. Some former competitors have gone on to compete at the Paralympics, the competition similar to the Olympics for people with physical disabilities.

The sign up deadline for the games is 2 p.m. Thursday. For more information go to www.MiDSA.org.

Antonio Planas