The 2006 Empire State Games got underway in Rochester Wednesday, with 60 Bronx athletes rounding out the rosters.

About 6,000 athletes are competing in 28 sports ranging from canoeing to judo to basketball. Organizers say that variety makes the games, which were created in 1978 and patterned after the Olympics, fun. Professional and college scouts will be on hand at the games.

The athletes will also live together and take part in social events together through July 30.