Plainview resident Allison Dender recently competed in New York State's Empire Games that were held at Binghamton University.

The largest competition of its kind in the nation, the Empire Games are a multi-sport event for amateur athletes, patterned after the Olympic program. Athletes must be residents of the State of New York.

The purpose of the Empire State Games is to encourage wholesome athletic competition among the residents of New York State, particularly the youth, foster incentive for the improvement of amateur athletics in New York State and to develop public recognition of the dedicated amateur athlete.

The Empire State Games competition is a program of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, is a member of the National Congress of State Games, and is a recognized State Games Program of the United States Olympic Committee.

Congratulations to Allison Dender on her great accomplishment.