Thursday, January 30, 2025
Latham, N.Y. (January 30, 2025) — The 2025 Empire State Winter Games Torch Relay made a special stop at the Latham office of Highmark Blue Shield today as part of its five day, 700-mile journey to Lake Placid.
As presenting sponsor of the 45th annual ESWG, Highmark Blue Shield hosted a special ceremony celebrating the upcoming games, bringing together athletes, organizers, community members, and employees.
“We're incredibly proud to partner with the Empire State Winter Games again this year, both as presenting sponsor and by hosting the Torch Relay at our offices in Latham,” said Kevin Quaranto, Region Leader, Highmark Blue Shield. “Our community is privileged to welcome the remarkable athleticism and inspiring spirit of these games.”
The ESWG, the largest multi-sport amateur winter athletic event in North America, anticipates welcoming approximately 2,500 athletes to compete in over 20 events across Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake, Paul Smiths, and the surrounding region.
The torch relay is expected to involve up to 30 communities, schools, sports clubs, mascots, arenas and other venues as the ESGW flame winds its way east and north. In connecting three corners of New York state, the relay symbolizes a unifying spirit, inspiration and resilience as the ESWG celebrates the power of sport and community. Upon the torch’s arrival in Lake Placid Thursday, January 30, the Opening Ceremony will take place, and competition begins the next day.
For more information on the games visit: empirestatewintergames.com
About Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York
Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York is a trade name of Highmark Western and Northeastern New York Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Since 1946, Highmark Blue Shield of Northeastern New York has helped millions of people lead healthier lives. Blue Shield offers a full range of insured, self-insured, and government programs and services covering businesses, families, and individuals, as well as dental and vision plans and stop-loss coverage. As a community-based, not-for-profit health plan, Highmark Blue Shield contributes significantly to organizations that strengthen and enrich the health of the community.
For more information, contact
Amber Hartmann
716-208-9534
Amber.Hartmann@highmarkhealth.com
