The first Patriot Games began Sunday morning at SPIRE Academy in Geneva, Ohio, where 120 high school athletes representing every state, along with U.S. territories and tribal nations, opened three days of competition for a share of $250,000 in college scholarships.
Day one opened with the Presidential Qualifier, a fitness test built around events including the 55-meter hurdles, the broad jump and the medicine ball toss. The boys finished their round Sunday morning and the girls were competing by early afternoon, according to Freedom 250. Team games of kickball and dodgeball follow in the evening.
The competition is organized by Freedom 250, the White House-backed group behind this year’s 250th anniversary events. The White House promoted the opening Sunday, posting on X that “America’s best young athletes are coming together to compete, represent their home states, and show what American strength is all about.”
The games run through Tuesday. All three days stream on the ESPN app, and a one-hour special airs Aug. 13 on ABC.
Here’s what day one looked like.
Jace Niles leads a huddle during day one of the Patriot Games, Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, in Geneva, Ohio. (AP Photo/Nate Manley)
(AP Photo/Nate Manley)
Hank Davis of Kentucky interacts with a coach during day one of the Patriot Games, Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, in Geneva, Ohio. (AP Photo/Nate Manley)
(AP Photo/Nate Manley)
Roan Christmann participates in the 55 meter hurdles during day one of the Patriot Games, Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, in Geneva, Ohio. (AP Photo/Nate Manley)
(AP Photo/Nate Manley)
Kasen Armstrong of South Dakota participates in the medicine ball toss during day one of the Patriot Games, Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, in Geneva, Ohio. (AP Photo/Nate Manley)
(AP Photo/Nate Manley)
Christian Berezay of Washington participates in the medicine ball toss during day one of the Patriot Games, Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, in Geneva, Ohio. (AP Photo/Nate Manley)
(AP Photo/Nate Manley)