The inaugural Iowa State Campus Olympics will take place today from 11:30 to 3:30 on central campus. The question still remains: will they be the Summer Olympics or Winter?

The idea for an all-campus Olympics was originated by Rachel Albaugh, director of recreation and intramural events.

Albaugh said the event has been a collaborative effort since day one.

“The Government of the Student Body and the Recreation and Intramural Committee have really worked hard and well together to make this event a success,” she said.

The Olympics will feature a variety of games. Among them will be a game of ultimate frisbee, dizzy bat, wheelbarrow races, three-legged races, mass twister and football kick and throw contests.

“The idea is to give students something fun to do and celebrate one of the last warm days of fall, hopefully,” Albaugh said.

About $250 worth of prizes will be awarded to winners of the games as well as a variety of free gifts to all participants.

Ryan Glanzer, vice president of GSB, said the event is being sponsored by local businesses.

“We went to different places in Ames and there was a lot of interest in the event,” he said.

Sponsors of the event include Applebees, Do-Biz, Fareway, Happy Joe’s, Hickory Park, Hometeam Pizza, Kum & Go, Little Caesar’s, Moovies, Play It Again Sports, Sam’s Club, Taco Bell and Target.

In addition to the sponsors, Glanzer said KCCQ radio station will be on central campus doing a live broadcast.

He said, “The radio station thought it was a great event to be a part of.”

Albaugh hopes this inaugural run will become a Cyclone tradition.

“We’re hoping this gets enough interest that we can have one of these once a semester,” she said.

Albaugh encourages all students to stop by and enjoy the festivities.

“The event is set up so that anyone can stop by and participate for just a few minutes, so come out and help make this event a success,” she said.