For the first time since 2019 the Summer Iowa Games are returning to normal. The event was forced to deal with the COVID pandemic in 2020 and 2021 and last year was held in conjunction with the delayed State Games of America.

That’s spokesman Cory Kennedy who says the event will be offering more than 40 sports this summer.

Kennedy says they will be returning to a more condensed schedule this year.

Kennedy says the change in the schedule will give the event a more Olympic style feel. Events will be held July seventh through the 16th.

The Opening Ceremonies in Ames will be Friday, July 14th.