Tonight starts the games of the Annual Special Olympics Basketball & Cheerleading Tournament in Hays. You’ll be able to watch the opening ceremonies live here on Hutch Post starting at 7 p-m.

Presenting Sponsor, the Kansas State Council of the Knights of Columbus will be featured in the opening ceremonies that are highlighted by the lighting of the cauldron. Matthew Weems will carry the torch.

Almost 1600 athletes and coaches will be in Hays for the tournament. The torch will be carried by members of the Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run, with special assistance from the 2012 Most Inspirational Athlete, Matthew Weems from the Topeka Jr. Blues.

This year marks the 37th year the tournament has been held in Hays out of the 41 years of basketball for Special Olympics Kansas.