CAIRO – The 38th annual International Sports Jamboree for mobility and visually impaired children will be held Friday, Saturday and Sunday at North Bend State Park.

This year’s theme for contestants is “Under The Sea.” AT&T and Telecom Pioneers and the park sponsor the event the third weekend in July every year,

Creating recreation for persons with physical challenges began at North Bend in 1978 when the first Jamboree was held. From this first event Pioneers began “answering the call” of those in need, and have done so for nearly four decades.

Special sporting equipment was created that beeped for visually impaired, and games for mobility impaired were also created, said DJ Allen, a volunteer with the Telecom Pioneers.

“The Jamboree is not just about competing on an equal basis, it is about forming bonds between contestants, inspiring each other and uplifting the spirits of those who face great challenges every day. It is about having a weekend of fun, and then returning home with a renewed focus for the future,” Allen said.

For the many individuals and organizations who work the Jamboree, it is about making this weekend a memorable one for all involved. Volunteers are welcome and encouraged to attend.

On Friday, practice sessions start at 2 p.m. Opening ceremonies and welcome by Park Superintendent Steve Jones begin at 6:30 p.m. at the amphitheater, with entertainment to follow by Lloyd Hunt, Gospel Travelers and Tommy Griffith.

Saturday’s events start with introduction of participants at 8 a.m. in the games area by the administration building, with welcome by Sports Jamboree General Chairperson Lonnie Pennington, followed by the pledge, posting of colors, U. S. and Canadian National Anthems and the WV State Song.

Games begin at 9 a.m. and continue throughout the day with the last game starting at 3:30 p.m. Included are the 40-yard race, softball throw, jamb toss, basketball game, and free throws, horseshoes, bicycle, team relays, bowling and air rifle.

Contestants have a chance to showcase their talents after the awards ceremony at the amphitheater, and before the closing dance at the lodge