The Subway Commonwealth
Games of Virginia

Going into its 23rd year, the Subway Commonwealth Games of Virginia, is known throughout Virginia as Virginia's Olympics. This annual event is held the third week of July (for most sports) and open all ages and skill levels. From archery to wrestling, this event offers sports competition venues for 55+ different Olympic and Pan American sports.

With it's tagline of "Inspiring wellness & competition," the Subway Commonwealth Games of Virginia represent the true spirit of amateur athletics. For some, this celebration of sport is a stepping stone for following the dream of representing the United States in the Olympic Games. For others, the Games are a place to compete in a favorite pastime. Regardless of the age or skill of the athlete, the Subway Games provide the pure pleasure of competing for the love of sport.

The Subway Commonwealth Games are more than sports events; they go much deeper. The Games teach values such as teamwork and good sportsmanship, which are important components of everyday life. The Games encourage athletes to develop and improve their physical talent and competitive abilities. Lastly, the ideals of the Games promote physical fitness and encourage Virginians to adopt a healthy lifestyle, which includes exercise.

More than 4,400 athletes competed in 29 sports in the first Games. More recently, in 2011, the Games hosted nearly 9,200 athletes competing in 55+ individual and team sports, used over 80 sporting venues and worked with more than 1,200 volunteers.

This multi-sport festival is supported by a grassroots volunteer network, businesses and governments of the Roanoke Valley. The Games have an estimate $4 million economic impact on the Valley. More than 190,000 athletes, their families plus spectators have participated during the past 22 years. The success of the Games is immeasurable, in today's semantics - priceless. 

Quote from U.S. Senator Mark Warner:

"For more than 21 years now, the Commonwealth Games have provided excellent opportunities for untold thousands of Virginians to meet, train, compete and win. Those who participate in the Commonwealth Games uniformly say they gain much from the experience. And while the athletic competitions provide fun, excitement and a significant economic benefit across Western Virginia, the real value can be measured in the year-long commitment of the athletes and the great example they set about the value of health and wellness." 

Quote from Landon Howard, Executive Director, Roanoke Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau

"Years of hosting the Games in the Roanoke Valley have produced not only dividends in exposure of the area but also a considerable economic impact and seen as an economic engine for the region. Once here, we make every effort to give the athletes and their families plenty of reasons to return."