3rd Annual Games of Duncanville set for Saturday, Sept. 13

by Danielle Parker of Duncanville TODAY

DUNCANVILLE — The Duncanville Chamber of Commerce's third annual Games of Duncanville are almost here, but there is still time to be a part the chamber's most spirited event of the year.

On Sept. 13, teams from area businesses like Republic Glass and Mirror, Pet Medical Center and Chick-fil-A will put on their game faces and contend to be the 2008 Games of Duncanville Champions.

“With a shotgun start, each four-person team travels to different qualifying and challenging games at various Duncanville venues to compete against other teams for points,” Carmen Partlow, chamber director of member services, said.

The day begins at noon with lunch and an opening ceremony to welcome in the competing teams. Then the teams are let loose and participate in favorites like “There's a Hole in my Bucket” and “On Time, On Target.”

For Jenny Hanna, Pet Medical Center's office manager, participating in the games was not only fun for her and her co-workers, but also brought them closer together.

“This was a huge morale-building experience overall for everyone in our office,” Hanna said. “Even employees and clients who were not on the team came and cheered us on while we practiced and competed.”

Hanna's husband, Mark, participated last year as well.

“It was a lot of fun, not only competing, but having the opportunity to meet different people in my community,” Mark said. “Each game brought out a different person's unique talent and ability.”

It may just seem like fun and games, but Mark said the Games of Duncanville exemplified the spirit behind the chamber and the city.

“I brought away a new level of respect for the people of the chamber and the city. You could tell that they really put a lot of time and effort into this event,” Mark said. “It showed that people were willing to put their all in to this to make it special.”

Pet Medical Center came in second last year. This time around, Pet Medical is once again entering two teams with hopes of being the Games of Duncanville champions.

Teams play for several prize packages from Texas Motor Speedway and the Grand Prairie Airhogs among several other Dallas-area venues.

“It gets pretty competitive,” Partlow said. “But what can you expect from a ‘city of champions?'”

Those who may not be as competitive-natured are still welcomed to be a part of the games throughout the day.

“The public is invited to attend the opening ceremonies and then travel to different game venues,” Chamber President Sara Dedeluk said. “They can come back at 6 p.m. to Armstrong Park for the Champions' Challenge followed by a picnic and an evening concert with Cedric Barrett Concept.”

“I encourage everyone to participate in some way, whether it is competing, volunteering or spectating,” Dedeluk said. “It is a one-of-a-kind, end-of the-summer event. It involves community spirit, encouraging team-building and camaraderie.”

For more information, call 972-780-4990 or visit duncanvillechamber.org or gamesofduncanville.com.